travel in italy by train

The Man in Seat 61

A beginner's guide to

Train travel in italy.

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Ride the trains in Italy from €9.90

There's no better way to see the cities of Italy than by train, trains link almost every town & city of any size, centre to centre.  Driving & parking in Italian cities is not recommended.  The high-speed trains are now faster, more convenient & more relaxing than flying (between 2008 & 2018, the airlines' share of the Milan-Rome market dropped from 50% to just 14%!).

Rome to Florence takes just 1h32 at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) & costs from €19.90, Rome to Venice 3h45 from €29.90, Rome to Naples 1h12 from €19.90, Rome to Milan 2h55 from €29.90.

No check-in, no need for transfers to/from out-of-town airports, no baggage fees or weight limits.  There are even trains to Sicily !

  Buy tickets online

How to reach specific places

Station guides

City maps showing stations

International trains to & from Italy

Other useful information

Useful country information

How to check train schedules & fares.

Check train times & fares within Italy using any of the websites shown here .

Some major cities have more than one main station, see which station to use in which city .  If you're not sure, most websites allow you to select the plain city name, or any station .

Maps of the Italian rail network

How to buy tickets, do you need to buy in advance.

Regional trains, no

For example, Pisa to Florence, Florence to Lucca or Siena, Milan to Como or Tirano, Venice to Trieste.

There's no need to buy in advance and no cost advantage in doing so as the price is fixed, buying online or in an app just saves time at the ticket office.  There are no assigned seats, you sit where you like.  In most cases tickets are sold in unlimited numbers so the train can't sell out, although regional trains on a few routes now have limited numbers.  More about regional (R) & regional express (RV) trains and how they are ticketed .

Long-distance trains, yes

For example, Venice to Florence or Rome, Rome to Naples or Turin, Milan to Venice.

All seats on Frecciarossa , Frecciargento , Frecciabianca & InterCity trains are reserved, so they can in theory sell out.  However, as there are so many trains each with hundreds of seats there are almost always places available on most trains even just before departure. So you can buy at the station on the day if you want. The issue is price.  Trenitalia ditched the old fare-per-kilometre approach to pricing in 2009 and adopted airline-style dynamic pricing for advance-purchase fares whilst increasing the fully-flexible Base price.  So on the day of travel you'd pay the Base fare, Rome-Florence €55, Rome-Venice €99, but if you book in advance you can buy a cheap Economy or Super-Economy fare from as little as €19.90 Rome-Florence or €29.90 Rome-Venice, assuming you're OK with limited or no refunds or changes to travel plans.  It's your call!

When does booking open?

Booking opens up to 4 months ahead, but this varies

It can shrink to as little as 30 days for dates immediately after Europe-wide timetable changes on the 2nd Saturday in June and the second Saturday in December.

If some trains are shown, but others are missing...

Trenitalia loads trains in blocks, usually high-speed trains first and regional, InterCity & sleeper trains later.  I've seen high-speed trains loaded, but not regional trains.  I've seen regional trains loaded, but not high-speed trains.  Intercity trains to Sicily and ICN sleeper trains usually get loaded last, after other trains.  The Milan-Sicily night train usually gets loaded last of all!

So if you don't see all the trains you expect to see, don't assume that the missing trains have all been mysteriously cancelled, assume they haven't been loaded yet.  Wait!

Types of fare

This is the fully-flexible fare for Trenitalia's high-speed Frecce & intercity trains, it's what you'd pay at the station on the day.  Refundable, only valid on the train booked but can be changed before departure or at the station up to an hour after departure.  The Base fare was originally one fixed price for a given journey, but since 2017 the Base fare for Frecciarossa & Frecciargento trains can vary slightly by day of the week or the popularity of each particular train.

Economy & Super-Economy

These are cheaper advance-purchase fares for Trenitalia's high-speed Frecce & intercity trains, only valid on the train booked, limited refunds & changes, limited availability, these are the fares you want for cheap travel if you are certain what time train you want.  The price varies like air fares, cheaper in advance and on less popular dates, more expensive close to departure and on busy days or times of day.

Speciale Frecce

An ultra-cheap advance purchase fare for Trenitalia's high-speed Frecce & intercity trains, must be bought at least 14 days ahead.  No refunds, no changes, use it or lose it.  But it's cheap!

A small group fare for 3-5 people.  Limited availability, price varies.  No refunds, no changes, use it or lose it.

Senior & FrecciaYoung

These can only be bought if you have Trenitalia's Cartafreccia railcard which you probably haven't, so ignore these.  When you select them it immediately asks for your Cartafreccia card number, so you can't buy them by mistake!

This is the normal fare for regional trains.  It's fixed-price, you can buy a ticket at that price even on the day.  As of 2023, online regional tickets are only good for the specific train you've selected, but you can change the date or time of departure free of charge up to 23:59 on the day before departure, and you can change the time of departure until 23:59 on the day of travel.  Ordinaria tickets are available in unlimited numbers on most regional trains, although there are now some regional trains where the ticket numbers sold are limited, see more about how regional (R) & regional express (RV) trains are ticketed .

Option 1, buy at Italiarail.com

You can buy Trenitalia tickets at www.italiarail.com in €, £, $, Ca$ or Au$ - to book in US$ click here .

ItaliaRail are a well-established US-based agency who link directly to Trenitalia's ticketing system.  They don't sell tickets for Italo .

Italiarail books the same trains as Trenitalia's own website, but in plain English with no quirky translations.  You can use familiar English place-names such as Venice or Florence.

Italiarail shows a whole day's trains in the search results and can book up to 20 people at a time.  Trenitalia's own website only shows a couple of hours-worth of trains at a time and can only book up to 5 people at a time.

For en extra €2 you can choose your seats from a seat map on Trenitalia high-speed & intercity trains, making sure you all sit together.

Italiarail can be cheaper than Trenitalia for 2 or more people travelling together as it is capable of combining (for example) the last remaining €19.90 ticket with a ticket at the next price level up, say €29.90.  Trenitalia.com cannot mix & match price levels within the same booking, so will offer 2 x €29.90 even if there is one €19.90 fare left.  For family groups the cost saving can be significant.

High-speed & intercity trains are ticketless, you simply print your booking reference or show it on your phone.  For regional trains you print your own ticket, show them in an app or in some cases collect it from the self-service machines at a Trenitalia station.

Tip:   Italiarail charge a €3.50 booking fee, but they'll refund this if you email them at [email protected] quoting your booking reference.

Option 2, buy at Thetrainline.com

Thetrainline also connects to Trenitalia's system to sell tickets in plain English at the same prices as Trenitalia, in €, £, $, Ca$ or Au$, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee.

For an extra €2, you can choose your seats from a seat map on Trenitalia high-speed & intercity trains.

Thetrainline.com has two key advantages:

First, it sells tickets for Italo as well as Trenitalia, so you can compare times & prices for both operators.

Second, it also links to the French, Spanish, Swiss, German, Austrian & Benelux national ticketing systems so you can book train tickets across much of western Europe together all in one place.

High-speed & intercity trains are ticketless, you simply print your booking reference or show it on your phone.  For regional trains you print your own ticket, can show them in an app or in some cases collect them from the self-service machines at a Trenitalia station.  Who are Thetrainline.com?

Option 3, buy at Raileurope.com

You can also buy Trenitalia & Italo tickets at www.raileurope.com , also in plain English with prices in €, £ or $, small booking fee.  It also connects to the French, German, Austrian, Spanish, British ticketing systems (but not the Swiss) so can sell train tickets for much of western Europe all in one place.  Again, high-speed & intercity trains are ticketless so you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone, for regional trains you usually print your own ticket or collect tickets from the self-service machines at any main Trenitalia station.  Who are Raileurope.com?

Option 4, buy at Trenitalia.com

You can of course buy Italian train tickets direct from Italian Railways at www.trenitalia.com , English button at the top, only in €, no booking fee.  It's pretty easy to use but you'll need to use Italian-language place names and it has a few quirky translations & processes especially when booking sleepers or international trains so see the step-by-step guide below .

High-speed & intercity trains are ticketless, you print your booking reference or show it on your phone, other tickets can be printed or collected at any main Italian station from the self-service machines .  It also offers seat selection for €2 on high-speed & intercity trains.

For 2 or more people travelling together, you may find ItaliaRail cheaper, see option 1 above.  Obviously, they don't sell tickets for their competitor Italo , or for other European trains outside Italy.

Buying tickets at the station

It's easy to buy tickets at the station on the day of travel, even if you don't speak Italian.  Simply go to one of the Fast ticket machines installed at all main stations, these have a touch screen with an English language facility, see an illustrated guide to using the ticket machines .

The machines will sell both regional and long-distance tickets, including seat reservations for long-distance trains, for any date you like within the next 90 days.  They take Visa and MasterCard credit cards, but your card needs to have a PIN code.

Trains seldom sell out, finding tickets even on the day of travel isn't a problem unless you hit a major holiday period.  If one train is full, the next will have seats.  Just remember that high-speed & Intercity trains are cheaper booked in advance, just like flights.  If you buy on the day, you will have to pay the 'Base' fare , in other words the top tier flexible price.

How to buy international tickets

The easy way

The easiest option is to use either www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com as they can book most international journeys to/from Italy.

Both sites connect to the Trenitalia, SNCF (French), SBB (Swiss), ÖBB (Austrian) and DB (German) ticketing systems so they can book most routes to/from Italy including any Italian domestic connecting trains.

They're very easy to use, you can book in €, £ or $, international credit cards are no problem.  There's a small booking fee.

Thetrainline.com allows you to select seats from a seat map on Trenitalia's high-speed & Intercity trains, and on French TGVs in 1st class.

For more specific information on international trains from Italy to other European cities and how to book them, click on your starting city:

Rome   Naples   Florence   Venice   Milan

The advanced way

Alternatively, you can book with the relevant operator, usually with no booking fee, but you need to know which operator runs which route.  You'll often need to book any connecting trains separately, as most operators can't book each other's trains.

To/from Switzerland

The direct EuroCity trains between Milan and Brig, Lausanne, Geneva, Lugano, Luzern, Bern, Basel & Zurich can be booked at either www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .  Italiarail will refund their small booking fee if you email them at [email protected] after booking.

Both sites can book from anywhere in Italy to any Swiss station that is directly served by the EuroCity trains from Milan.  But they can't book onward tickets within Switzerland such as Brig to Zermatt, Arth-Goldau to Luzern or Spiez to Interlaken, so buy those separately from Swiss Railways at www.sbb.ch .

To/from Paris

The Frecciarossa trains between Milan/Turin & Lyon/Paris can be booked at either www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .  Both sites can book from anywhere in Italy to Lyon or Paris.  However, they can't book onward French trains to other French cities (or to London or Brussels) so you'll need to book those separately at www.sncf-connect.com .

The French TGV trains between Milan, Turin & Paris can be booked at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com with no booking fee.  It allows you to choose a seat from a seat map in 1st class, too.  However, it cannot book connecting Trenitalia trains within Italy, so you'll need to book those separately at either www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .

To Nice, Cannes, Monaco or Marseille

First book from anywhere in Italy to Ventimiglia (on the French border where Trenitalia's trains terminate) at either www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .  Trenitalia can't sell an onward French ticket, so buy your onward ticket from Ventimiglia to any French destination at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com .  There's more about the Italy-Nice route on the Italy to Nice page .

To Innsbruck, Munich & Germany by daytime trains

The EuroCity trains between Bologna/Venice/Verona and Innsbruck or Munich can be booked at the German Railways website int.bahn.de with no booking fee, this can book tickets from the EuroCity train's starting stations to anywhere in Germany, but it cannot book connecting Trenitalia trains within Italy (at least not in their main system with through fares), so book those separately at either www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .

To Vienna by daytime trains

The railjet trains between Venice and Vienna can be booked at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at with no booking fee, this can book tickets from Venice to anywhere in Austria, but it cannot book connecting Trenitalia trains within Italy, so book those separately at either www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .

To Munich & Vienna by Nightjet sleeper train

The Nightjet sleeper trains between Rome, Florence, Genoa, Milan, Venice and Munich or Vienna can be booked at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at , but this can't book connecting trains within Italy, so book those separately at either www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .

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Railpasses for Italy

Interrail & eurail passes.

Global & one-country passes

You can buy an Interrail pass (if you live in Europe, including the UK) or a Eurail pass (if you live outside Europe) giving unlimited travel on all Trenitalia trains all over Italy.  An Interrail/Eurail global pass covers most of Europe including Italy, a cheaper one-country pass only covers Italy.

Interrail & Eurail passes cover all Trenitalia trains, high-speed, intercity, Intercity Notte and regional.  They don't cover Italo trains , or some small railways such as the Circumvesuviana Railway Naples-Sorrento.

Reservation fees

Interrail & Eurail passholders must reserve seats to travel on Frecciarossa , Frecciargento & Frecciabianca trains, this costs €13 in addition to the cost of the pass.  The reservation fee for Intercity trains is €3.  For Intercity Notte sleeper trains , see the reservation fees here .

You can make passholder reservations online as explained in the Italy section of the Interrail & Eurail reservations page .  You can also make them at stations, but at  the staffed counters only, not the self-service machines.  Passholder reservations cannot be made at Trenitalia.com.

Pass or point-to-point tickets?

The cost of reservation fees must be factored into the cost of a pass when comparing with point-to-point tickets.  All the point-to-point prices that you see online include any necessary reservation.

You must then realise that there are two types of point-to-point fare:  Cheap advance-purchase fares and the more expensive fully-flexible Base fare.

If all your dates and journeys are set in stone a month or two ahead, it's usually cheaper to buy advance-purchase Super-Economy or Economy fares.  For example Venice to Florence starts at €19.90, Venice to Rome starts at €29.90, seat reservation included.  A typical Interrail or Eurail pass might work out as €55 per day + €13 reservation fee = €68.

But advance-purchase fares vary like air fares, rising as departure date approaches, higher for busy or popular days or dates.  So you'll only know for sure if you go online and see what the point-to-point prices are for your specific journeys on your specific dates of travel.

Then remember that these cheap advance-purchase fares commit you to a specific train with limited or no changes to travel plans or refunds.  A pass gives you the flexibility to go wherever and whenever you like, you should really compare the pass with the fully-flexible Base fare you'd pay at the station on the day.

Even so, if you only plan to make relatively short hops such as Venice-Florence one day, Florence-Rome next day, Rome-Naples the next, the Base fare is often still cheaper than the per-day cost of a pass.  You basically need to be doing longer trips such as Venice-Rome or Milan-Naples every day, or multiple trips per day such as Rome to Florence and back again, to make a pass pay.  However, passes get cheaper if you are under 28 and children get free passes, so it's still worth doing the maths.  Youth passes can indeed make financial sense for a typical tour of Italy.

More about Interrail passes, with prices .  More about Eurail passes, with prices .  More about what these passes cover .

The Trenitalia Pass

Trenitalia also sell their own railpass called the Trenitalia Pass.  It can be bought by anyone resident outside Italy.

How is it different from a Eurail or Interrail pass?

Unlike Interrail & Eurail, it only covers Trenitalia high-speed, Intercity & Intercity Notte sleeper trains.  It doesn't cover regional trains. 

Unlike Interrail & Eurail it doesn't give you unlimited travel, you buy a specific number of journeys (3, 4, 7 or 10 trips) to be made within a set period of days, where a journey = one ride on one train.  If you went Rome to Florence in the morning and back in the evening, that's 2 trips on a Trenitalia Pass, but would be covered by just one day on an Interrail or Eurail pass.

But on the plus side, unlike Interrail & Eurail there are no extra fees to pay for reservations, it's all included.

Is a Trenitalia Pass cheaper than a Eurail or Interrail pass?

A Trenitalia Pass for a given number of trips is significantly cheaper than a global Interrail or Eurail pass covering the same number of days.

A Trenitalia pass is about the same price as a one-country Interrail or Eurail pass for Italy covering the same number of days, but as you don't need to pay €10 for every reservation, the Trenitalia pass works out cheaper.

That assumes you plan to use only one train per day.  A 4-journey Trenitalia Pass gives 4 individual train rides, a 4-day Interrail/Eurail gives unlimited rides, as many as you can cram in over 4 days .   If you're going to use multiple trains per day, an Interrail/Eurail pass is a better deal.

Is a Trenitalia Pass cheaper than point to point tickets?

A Trenitalia Pass saves money over the fully-flexible Base fare even for a series of short hops such as Rome-Florence, Florence-Venice, Venice-Milan, especially if you are under 28 so qualify for the youth pass.  But if you can book a few months in advance and don't need any flexibility, a no-refunds no-changes advance-purchase Super-Economy fare can still be cheaper than a Trenitalia Pass, check prices before buying a pass.

Trenitalia passes come in 4 sizes:

3 journeys within 7 consecutive days;

4 journeys within 7 consecutive days;

7 journeys within 15 consecutive days;

10 journeys within 30 consecutive days.

Trenitalia passes come in 2 classes:

Easy - good for 2nd class, standard class on Frecciarossa , seats or couchettes on Intercity Notte trains .

Comfort - good for 1st class, business class on Frecciarossa , seats, couchettes or double or triple sleepers on Intercity Notte trains trains.

Executive for executive class has been discontinued.

Trenitalia passes come in 3 passenger types:

Adult - up to 2 children under 12 can be added to an adult pass for free (but infants under 4 go free anyway, of course)

Youth - anyone under 28 on day of purchase.

Senior - anyone over 60 on day of purchase.

For more details and all the small print, see www.trenitalia.com and look for Trenitalia Pass .

How to buy a Trenitalia pass

You don't need to specify dates when buying a Trenitalia pass, you can book your first train for travel on any date up to 11 months afterwards.

Go to the www.trenitalia.com home page and switch it to English top right. 

Click Advanced search below the journey planner.  Click Carnet .  Then look for & click Trenitalia pass .

After buying the pass, you're emailed your pass number.  The pass is entirely electronic.

Tip:   I recommend registering for an account at Trenitalia.com before buying a pass.  Log into your account before buying.

How to book trains with a Trenitalia Pass

Seat reservations are needed on each train, but they are free and can be made online at Trenitalia.com or at stations.

Go to the www.trenitalia.com home page and switch it to English top right.

Click Advanced search below the journey planner.  Click Carnet .  Then look for & click Trenitalia pass.  Then change Purchase to Book .

Enter you pass number, first & last name of the passholder, hit Confirm and book a train with your pass.

The pass validity period starts ticking from the date of the first train you book.  So don't book your second train first then try to book another train for the previous day, that won't work.  You must book your trains in the order you'll take them!

Reservations have the same change conditions as a Base fare.  So you can cancel or change a reservation any time up to 60 minutes after the departure of the train.  If you don't do that, 60 minutes after departure that journey is considered 'used up' even if you missed the train.

When travelling, the pass can be shown on your phone or printed out.

Feedback from buying & booking trains using a Trenitalia pass would be appreciated, as without buying a pass I cannot test the process myself.

Italia In Tour , for regional trains

Italia In Tour passes are available for 3 or 5 consecutive days unlimited travel on Trenitalia regional trains all over Italy .

Good for any Trenitalia regional, regional express & metropolitan train.  But not valid (1) between La Spezia & Levanto through Cinque Terre, (2) within the territory of Lombardy, (3), the provinces of Bolzano and from Trento to Bassano del Grappa.  It can't be used on other operators' trains such as Trenord, so not valid between Milan & Tirano, for example.

It'd be ideal for a series of day trips from Florence to Siena, Luca, Pisa on successive days.  Or you could use it to work your way right across Italy on regional trains.  With this pass you can just hop on and off Trenitalia regional trains, as you like.

At the time I write this, it costs €29 for 3 days and €49 for 5 days, check latest prices online.

To see prices and buy a pass, see www.trenitalia.com/en/offers/italia-in-tour.html (please let me know if that link stops working).

Tours of Italy by train

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can put together a tour of Italy for you as a package, including rail travel, hotels & transfers.  On their website you'll find a range of suggested tours which can be varied or customised to your own requirements.  And as you're booking a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens to one part of the itinerary such as a strike or delay.  They have offices in the UK, USA & Australia.

Tailor Made Rail can arrange tours of Italy by train based on your own requirements, they welcome complex itineraries.  As it's a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens on one part of the trip, for example, a national strike.  They're TTA-protected - like ATOL, but not only for agencies that sell air travel.

Call their dedicated seat61 phone line 020 3778 1461 and quote seat 61 when booking.  From outside the UK call +44 20 3778 1461 .  Lines open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday.  Their website is www.tailormaderail.com/destinations/italy .

Expert individual trip planning & advice

DiscoverByRail.com offers expert help in planning trains in Italy & around Europe, with suggestions for routes, trains, hotels to your own specification.  They charge a small fee, around £35 per trip.

What are Italian trains like ?

Frecciarossa:  see the frecciarossa guide.

Trenitalia's top high-speed trains are the Frecciarossas (red arrows) , mostly operated either by the original 300 km/h (186 mph) Frecciarossa 500 trains or the latest Frecciarossa 1000 trains introduced in 2015.  Some are operated by 250 km/h (155 mph) Frecciarossa 700 & Frecciarossa 600 trains.

Frecciarossas have 3 or 4 classes of accommodation, a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seas & free WiFi, s ee the Frecciarossa page for more information .

Tickets for all Trenitalia's long-distance trains include a seat reservation and are only valid on the specific date & train you've booked.

Principal Frecciarossa routes:   Turin-Milan-Bologna-Florence-Rome-Naples-Salerno ( Frecciarossa 1000 & 500 );  Venice-Florence-Rome-Naples ( Frecciarossa 1000 & 500 );  Turin-Milan-Verona-Venice (usually Frecciarossa 700 );  Milan-Ancona-Bari-Brindisi-Lecce ( Frecciarossa 500 ).  See seat maps .

Frecciargento :  See the Frecciargento guide

Next down the pecking order are Trenitalia's 250km/h (155mph) Frecciargento (silver arrow) tilting trains, although these are now rare as most are being rebranded as Frecciarossa.  Frecciargento services are operated by pendolino tilting trains, air-conditioned with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  The trains reach 250 km/h on the high-speed lines and use their tilt to cut journey times through curves when running on classic lines.

Principal remaining Frecciargento routes:   Rome-Bari, plus the odd Genoa-La Spezia-Pisa-Rome trains.  See seat maps .

Frecciabianca

One step down from Frecciarossa and Frecciargento are the Frecciabianca (white arrow) services, now getting very rare. The remaining Frecciabianca services on the Rome-Pisa-La Spezia-Genoa route are operated by older ETR460 tilting trains bumped off Frecciargento service.  They have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats & free WiFi.  Tickets include a seat reservation and are only valid on the specific date & train you've booked.

Principal remaining Frecciabianca route:   Milan-Genoa-La Spezia-Pisa-Rome.

Intercity trains :  See the IC guide

Next in the pecking order are the Intercity trains, fast trains hauled by locomotives at up to 160 km/h (100 mph), sometimes 200 km/h (125 mph).  Most Intercity cars are open-plan with a centre aisle, a few are classic side-corridor-and-compartment cars with 6-seat compartments, though you don't always get both sorts in both classes on a given train.  Some Intercity trains have a cafe counter, some just vending machines selling drinks and snacks.  You're free to bring your own food & drink, even a bottle of wine if you like.  See the Trenitalia Intercity page for more information .

Principal Intercity routes:   Rome-Naples-Sicily;  Rome-Livorno-Pisa-Cinque Terre-La Spezia-Genoa-Milan;  Milan-Genoa-Savona-Ventimiglia (for Nice).

Intercity Notte sleeper trains:   See the ICN guide

Comfortable Intercity Notte (ICN) overnight trains link Milan, Bologna, Rome, Naples with Messina, Palermo, Catania & Siracuse on Sicily, see the Trains to Sicily page .

Intercity Notte overnight trains also link Trieste/Venice with Rome, Turin/Milan with Naples, and Turin/Milan with Bari, Brindisi & Lecce, see the Intercity Notte page .

Regionale & Regionale Veloce (R, RV)

Regional trains come in many different shapes & sizes, they operate all over Italy including Florence-Pisa, Florence-Siena, Florence-Lucca, Venice-Trieste, Rome-Civitavecchia.  On regional trains there are no assigned seats, you sit where you like.  Luggage goes on the racks or simply on the floor.  There's no catering, so bring your own food & drink.  Many are 2nd class only.

There's little point in booking regional trains in advance as there's just one cheap fixed Ordinaria fare that can be bought on the day at that price.  Buy a ticket from the ticket office or self-service machines or buy online or in the Trenitalia app.  Interrail or Eurail passholders can just hop on, nothing more to do or pay.

How tickets for regional trains work, from August 2023 onwards:

For tickets bought online, the old system of having to stamp your ticket in a validator is gone and so is the system of tickets being good for a 4-hour time slot.  From 5 August 2023, tickets for regional trains bought online or in an app are only good for train you have selected, but this can be changed free of charge as follows:

You can change the date and/or departure time free of charge using the Trenitalia app or website, as many times as you like, up to 23:59 on the day before departure. Tickets are also 80% refundable up to that time.

On the day of travel, you can change the departure time as many times as you like, free of charge, until 23:59 or the last train, whichever is sooner.

Before boarding the train you must 'check in' online using the app or the website link provided.  You can check in at any time on the day of travel, as long as it is before you board the train.  Checking-in validates the ticket for use on that train, your ticket is then considered used, it becomes non-refundable and no further changes can be made.

Remember you'll need internet access on your phone to check in.  If you can't rely on that, either check in before you leave your hotel using the hotel's WiFi (remembering that no changes or refunds can be made after you have checked in), or buy at the station instead, at least 5 minutes before departure.

Online regional tickets bought from a retailer such as www.thetrainline.com or www.italiarail.com also work in this way, you'll get a link to check in and make changes to the date & time.  You show the QR code on your phone or can print the confirmation email with the codes on.

Can regional trains sell out?

Tickets are usually available in unlimited numbers so regional trains can't sell out, for example Milan-Tirano, Florence-Siena or Florence-Pisa.  However, Trenitalia now have some regional routes such as Venice-Trieste where the number of tickets sold for each train is limited so they can in theory sell out and occasionally do - even though specific seats aren't assigned.  This devious practice started during the pandemic and has continued.  To check, find the train on www.trenitalia.com and click the 'i' symbol for details.  If it says non-prenotabile , you're fine, tickets are unlimited and can't sell out.  If it says prenotabile ticket numbers are limited, so bear that in mind.

A regional train of the sort that runs from Florence to Pisa, Livorno & Siena.

Italo high-speed trains:   See the Italo guide

Private operator NTV (Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori) started operating its Italo high-speed trains on the Milan-Bologna-Florence-Rome-Naples route in 2012, and now competes with Trenitalia on the Turin-Milan-Verona-Venice and Venice-Florence-Rome-Naples routes as well.  Competition between Trenitalia and Italo has driven up quality, increased capacity and driven down fares.  It's well worth considering Italo for a journey between the main Italian cities.

See the Seat61 Italo information page for more information, an illustrated guide and the Italo video guide .

An Italo AGV train at Rome Termini .

Travel tips

1st or 2nd class?

2nd class (or standard class on Frecciarossas ) is absolutely fine.  It's very comfortable and there's plenty of luggage space, there's no need to pay for 1st class (or business class on Frecciarossas ) if you are on a budget.  There are very few peasants & chickens in 2nd class on European trains these days...

On the other hand, 1st (or business) class is nicer, with wider, plusher seats and a quieter environment with more laptops tapping and fewer noisy kids.  And with long-distance trains dynamically priced, it often costs only a little more to go 1st class if you book ahead. 

1st class seats are generally arranged 2+1 across the car width rather than 2+2, so you get solo seats (ideal for single travellers) and face-to-face tables for two on one side of the aisle, ideal for couples as you then face each other and both get a window seat that is also an aisle seat, the best of both worlds. 

On Frecciarossa trains you also get a complimentary glass of prosecco and a small snack box in business class.

Luggage arrangements:   See the luggage section .

Ticket validation

Language problems

First-time visitors often think this will be a problem, but it hardly ever is.  At stations, finding your platform & train using the various departure screens is no different from finding your gate & plane at an airport.  Signs are often in English as well as Italian, or pictograms are used.  On high-speed trains, announcements are usually repeated in English.

At ticket offices clerks have a pretty shrewd idea you want a train ticket not a packet of washing powder, in fact clerks in popular tourist cities will be used to dealing with Brits, Americans & Australians and will usually know the relevant words in English about one-ways & round trips, first or second class.  The ticket machines at every main station have a touch-screen with an English language facility.

The one thing that does help is knowing Italian place names:  Rome = Roma, Florence = Firenze, Venice = Venezia, Naples = Napoli, Milan = Milano, Turin = Torino, Genoa = Genova.

Food & drink on trains in Italy

Most high-speed trains have a cafe-bar, although most Intercity trains (and Italo trains) only have vending machines.  Feel free to bring your own food and drink with you, even a bottle of wine if you like, no rules against that on the rails!

You can take a bike with you on suburban, Regional & InterRegional trains if you buy a bike ticket costing about €4.  You can also pay to reserve a bike space on most Intercity trains .  However, on high-speed trains such as Frecciarossas you need to put your bike in a zip-up bike bag, front wheel & pedals removed and handlebars turned, see the bikes by train page .

Dogs & pets

Go to www.trenitalia.com and search under Services for Transport of pets .  You can take pets on many trains, but the rules vary slightly by type of train.  Very small dogs, cats & other pets in containers no bigger than 70cm x 30cm x 50cm are carried free on almost all trains & classes.  Larger dogs on a lead & muzzled are allowed on almost all trains but must have a ticket bought for them at 50% of the adult 2nd class fare (whatever class the owner is using) and they are not permitted in Executive or Premium classes on Frecciarossa trains, or in catering cars.  You can take a dog in sleepers or couchettes only if your party occupies the whole compartment.  Guide dogs are always free.

First class lounges at Italian stations

Executive class passengers & holders of Trenitalia's frequent traveller card can use the FrecciaClub lounges at stations in major cities.

Club class passengers on Italo , can use the Club Italo lounge at major city stations.  Prima class passengers can also use the lounge if they pay a €12 add-on when booking - though this may not be offered at busy times or with the cheapest tickets.

A train planner app for your phone

Railplanner is a free offline train timetable app that you can download onto your phone to check train times, station departures & train calling points on the move without the need to be on WiFi or to use mobile data .  It's blisteringly quick and covers not just Italy but most of Europe.  It highlights the reservation-required high-speed & InterCity trains in red and the no-reservation-required regional trains in green.  It's created with Eurail & Interrail passholders in mind, but is useful for anyone. Download for iPhone or Android at www.eurail.com/en/plan-your-trip/rail-planner-app - please let me know if the link stops working.

Are the trains running on time?

You can check real-time arrivals and departures at any Trenitalia station or the running of any train by train number at www.viaggiatreno.it .  Most regional trains run more or less on time, and so do most high-speed long-distance trains, with perhaps a 10 or 20 minute delay here and there.  However, make allowances for a typical 30 to 90 minute delay when catching the overnight sleeper trains to/from Sicily, for example.

Choosing your seat

Trenitalia.com , Italiarail.com & Thetrainline.com allow you to choose your seats from a seat map on Frecciarossa , Frecciargento , Frecciabianca and Intercity trains within Italy.

It's pretty self-explanatory, but as I'm often asked, yes, the grey bars are tables, and no, you can't tell which way seats face.  Indeed, most Naples-Rome-Venice and Naples-Rome-Milan trains change direction at both Rome Termini and Florence SMN station , both of which are dead-end terminus stations.

For a couple in 1st class I recommend a face-to-face table for two.

Luggage on trains in Italy

Luggage is no real problem on Italian trains, and it makes no real difference whether you go 1st or 2nd class, there's always room for bags.  You don't check your bags in and there is no baggage car.  You simply take whatever you like into the train with you, and stick your bags on the racks above your head or on the big luggage racks at the end of each car or between the seat backs.  On regional trains, it just goes on the floor next to you if there aren't any racks.

There are no baggage fees or weight limits to worry about, for most practical purposes if you can carry it you can bring it.  It's so simple, it hardly needs explaining, yet overseas visitors chase their tails worrying about it.  Don't over-think it, but don't travel with more than you really need.  Anything up to backpack-sized fits on the racks above your head, larger items such as bulky suitcases go on the racks at the end of the car, in the seating area, or between the seat backs.

Security is not a major problem, your bags full of clothing are no more likely to be stolen than airline checked baggage.  There's no need to chain your bag to the rack, any more than you'd chain you bags to the luggage bin on a plane.  Although I like to use a rack which I can see from my seat and I always keep cameras, passports and so on in my daypack at my seat.  But I thought that was obvious?

Porters are pretty much a thing of the past along with butlers, valets and ladies' maids.  However, Milan Centrale , Milan Porta Garibaldi , Venice Santa Lucia , Rome Termini , Florence SMN , Turin Porta Nuova are all termini with level access to and between all trains.  You can just pull your bag on its wheels from street or taxi rank across the station concourse right up to the train door, lift it two steps up into the train, and wheel it to a convenient rack or space between the seats next to your seat.  If you're elderly or pregnant, another passenger will almost always help you get your bags the two short steps into the train.

Luggage storage at stations

All main Italian stations including Turin Porta Nuova , Milan Centrale , Verona Porta Nuova , Venice Santa Lucia , Florence SMN , Rome Stazione Termini & Naples Centrale have left-luggage facilities, either lockers or a staffed facility.  Information on left-luggage prices & opening times .

Which station in which city?

Roma Termini is the main station in Rome, in the city centre walking distance from all the sights, see the Roma Termini station guide .

Roma Ostiense and Roma Tiburtina are on the outskirts of the city, you'll need a local train or taxi (around €15) into the city centre.  The Vatican has its own suburban station, Roma San Pietro, but it’s easy to reach St Peter’s from the Stazione Termini by bus or taxi.

Venezia Santa Lucia is the main station in Venice, in the city of Venice itself on the banks of the Grand Canal, 15-25 minutes walk from the Rialto Bridge & St Mark's Square.  See the Venice Santa Lucia station guide .

Venezia Mestre is on the mainland in an industrial area outside Venice itself, always book to Venice Santa Lucia unless you have a hotel in Mestre.

Firenze Santa Maria Novella is the main station in Florence, often abbreviated to SMN, in the city centre easy walking distance from all the sights.  See the Florence SMN station guide .  A few trains use Campo Marte or Rifredi stations outside the city centre, linked to SMN by frequent local trains.

Milano Centrale is the main station in Milan, a magnificent terminus in the city centre, served by most mainline & international trains.  It's a major Milan attraction in its own right, see if you can spot Mussolini .  See the Milan Centrale station guide .

Milan Porta Garibaldi is rather less magnificent, but still central, used by the French Railways TGVs to Paris and by some Trenitalia trains.  It's a 25 minute walk, 5 minute metro ride or 8 minute taxi ride from Centrale.

Some Malpensa airport trains arrive at Milan Cadorna, a small local terminus also located in the city centre, other Malpensa airport trains run to Milan Porta Garibaldi and Milan Centrale .  Milan Lambrate is much less central, and Milan Rogoredo is 5 km from the city centre.

Torino Porta Nuova is the main station, a large and historic terminus, see the Turin stations guide .

However, trains to & from Paris use Turin's other main station, Turin Porta Susa , and most trains to or from Rome, Milan or Venice call at Porta Susa before or after Porta Nuova .  Both stations are in Turin's city centre, walking distance from all the sights.

In Siena, the station is at the foot of the hill and used to be a steep trek up to the old town.  However, there's now a series of modern escalators and moving walkways that ferry you almost painlessly to the top of the hill, from where it's just a minute or two's walk to the Porta Camollia at the entrance to the old town.  From the Porta Camollia it's a pleasant 15 minute stroll to the famous Piazza del Campo.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Map of Pisa showing tower & railway stations .  Many people do Pisa as a day trip from Florence, using the frequent local trains.  Pisa Centrale is 2km from the Tower, a 30 minute walk, but if you take a train to Pisa S. Rossore station it's only a 5-10 minute walk to the Tower.  Some trains from Florence go direct to Pisa S. Rossore, 1 stop beyond Pisa Centrale, others require a change at Pisa Centrale.  Check train times using www.trenitalia.com or www.italiarail.com .

How to travel to Sicily

The train is a wonderful way to reach Sicily, an experience in itself.

There are two daytime InterCity trains from Rome & Naples to Palermo, Catania, Siracuse and time-effective overnight sleeper trains from Milan, Rome & Naples direct to Palermo, Catania & Siracuse.  See the timetable & information on the Trains to Sicily page .

If you use the daytime trains, bring a picnic and bottle of wine (as there's no catering car) and enjoy the ride, much of it along the Italian coast just a stone's throw from the sea towards the toe of Italy. 

All these trains are shunted onto a ferry at Villa san Giovanni for the short crossing of the Straits of Messina to Sicily.  It's the last remaining place in Europe where passenger trains go onto a ferry, a unique experience, watch the video .   Once the train is secured in the ship's hold, steps are placed next to the train doors, and you can either remain on board the train or get off and walk upstairs to the deck to take some sea air, returning to the train as the ferry docks on the other side.  Highly recommended!  You can book all of these trains to Sicily as shown here .

Or use an overnight ferry from Naples :  You can sail from Naples to Palermo by comfortable overnight ferry, with a  or shared cabin with en suite shower & toilet, and there are restaurants and bars for an enjoyable evening on board.  Ferries typically sail every day at around 20:00 and arrive around 06:30 in both directions.  See www.tirrenia.it & www.snav.it for times, dates, fares & online booking.

How to reach Herculaneum, Pompeii & Sorrento

Naples to Herculaneum, Pompeii & Sorrento by Circumvesuviana train

The railway from Naples to Herculaneum, Pompeii & Sorrento isn't run by Trenitalia, it's the privately-run Circumvesuviana Railway, www.eavsrl.it .  That's why you can't find trains to Sorrento on trenitalia.com or italiarail.com.  Map of Naples showing stations .

Simply buy a mainline ticket from Venice, Florence, Rome or wherever to Naples Centrale at www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .  On arrival at Naples Centrale, follow the signs to Circumvesuviana , these will take you downstairs to the Circumvesuviana station.

The Circumvesuviana station has its own ticket office, either buy a ticket to Ercolano, Pompeii Scavi or Sorrento there or use the ticket gate that allows you to touch in with a contactless bank card.  Go through the automatic ticket gates onto the platform and hop on the next train.

Trains run to Herculaneum (Ercolano), Pompeii and Sorrento every 30 minutes throughout the day, no reservation is necessary or possible.  Outside the weekday rush hours the trains are not crowded, there are plenty of seats and it's very easy to use.  Luggage goes on the racks or just on the floor, no problem.  This handy video shows you what to expect .

Naples to Pompeii costs around €3.20 one-way, journey around 40 minutes. 

Naples to Sorrento costs around €4.50 one-way, journey 55-65 minutes.

Naples to Sorrento by ferry

You can also travel from Naples Beverello ferry terminal to Sorrento by fast ferry with around 5 departures a day, journey time 45 minutes, fare around €13, bags €2.10, see www.alilauro.it .  You can buy online or just buy at the ferry terminal on the day.

To the top of Vesuvius

To visit the summit of Vesuvius, two morning buses run from Naples or a more regular bus service runs from Pompeii, both run by EAVBUS, see www.eavbus.it (Italian only) or (more usefully) www.unicocampania.it , click English top right and look for 'Vesuvio Fares' under 'Tourist Info'.

Day trip to Pompeii?   It's easy to arrange a trip to Pompeii yourself by train, see the guide here .

How to reach Capri

Buy a mainline ticket from Venice, Florence, Rome or wherever to Naples Centrale at www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com . 

The island of Capri is just off Sorrento.  You have two options:  You can take a direct ferry from Naples to Capri, journey time around 45 minutes, fare €20.10, or you can take the Circumvesuviana Railway to Sorrento (55-65 minutes) then a shorter ferry crossing to Capri (around 25 minutes, fare €18.10).

If you choose the ferry from Naples, take a taxi (5-10 minutes) or walk (about 25 minutes) from Naples Centrale to Naples Beverello ferry quay.  Fast ferries taking just 45 minutes link Naples Berevello with Capri every hour or two between 07:00 & 18:00, see either www.snav.it or Omio.com for times & fares.  The ferry fare is about €20.10 plus a euro or two per item of large luggage.  You don't need to pre-book the ferry, just turn up, buy a ticket and hop on.  Map of Naples showing station & ferry terminals .

If you choose to take the local Circumvesuviana Railway to Sorrento, there are many ferries to Capri, no pre-booking necessary.  Just be aware that it's a longish steep walk from Sorrento Circumvesuviana station down the hill to the ferry terminal.

Ferries from both Naples & Sorrento arrive at Capri's busy Marina Grande, there's a funicular railway up the steep hillside to Capri town itself. Bring plenty of money to Capri, even a small beer costs over €7!

How to reach Ischia

Ferries link Naples with Porto Ischia, see either www.caremar.it (sailings every hour or two, crossing time 45 minutes fast ferry or 90 mins conventional ferry) or www.alilauro.it .

How to reach Amalfi, Positano, Praiano

Option 1, by bus from Salerno

There's no railway to these towns on the famous Amalfi Coast, but buses run from Salerno to Amalfi.  So buy a train ticket for one of the many high-speed trains from Milan, Florence and Rome direct to Salerno, then hop on a bus to Amalfi.  This Salerno bus option is the quickest way to Amalfi.

Buses link Salerno & Amalfi every hour or better between 06:00 & 22:30 on Mondays-Saturdays, slightly less frequently on Sundays, journey time 1h15, fare around €2.20 one-way, you buy a ticket at the tobacconists shop inside Salerno station.  The buses are operated by SITA, to check bus times see www.sitasudtrasporti.it (in Italian only, click 'Orari' then 'Campania').  To check fares, you'll need to use public transport site www.unicocampania.it , click English top right then 'Fares & Tickets'.

Option 2, by ferry from Salerno

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Salerno to Amalfi or Positano.  See www.coopsantandrea.com for a timetable of small coastal ferries from Salerno (Concordia dock, 800m from Salerno railway station) to Amalfi and Positano.  At the time of writing, they had departures from Salerno at 08:40, 09:40, 10:40, 11:40, 14:10 and 15:30, journey time to Amalfi just 35 minutes, but check their website for current timings.  This is a good option in summer when the narrow coast road is clogged with traffic.

Option 3, by bus from Sorrento

You can also buy a train ticket to Naples, hop on the Circumvesuviana Railway to Sorrento as shown above then take a bus to Positano, Praiano & Amalfi.  For buses linking Sorrento with Positano, Praiano & Amalfi, see www.sitasudtrasporti.it (in Italian only, click 'Orari' then 'Campania').  Sorrento-Amalfi takes 1 hour 40 minutes, buses run hourly or at certain times half-hourly 06:30 to 22:00, and the fare is around €2.90.  The journey along the coast road is dramatic, the bus hugging the cliff and it rear end swinging out precariously at every hairpin bend!

Option 4, a private transfer from Naples to Praiano, Positano or Amalfi hotels

If cost is no object, a private car transfer from Naples Centrale railway station to Positano or Praiano costs around €95 one-way for up to 3 people, or around €110 to Amalfi.  Try www.amalfishuttle.com or www.positanoshuttle.com (same people - click 'transfer' at the top).  I have not had any reports about them yet, so feedback would be appreciated.  They will also do transfers from Sorrento Circumvesuviana station, which reduces the cost.

How to reach Elba

Travel by train to Piombino Marittima.  Moby Lines ( www.mobylines.com ) sail every hour or so from Piombino to Portoferraio on Elba, crossing time 1 hour, foot passengers €7 one-way.

How to reach Lake Como

Como San Giovanni is the mainline station for Como, it's on the Zurich-Milan main line and linked to Milan Centrale by frequent regional train.  Check times as above .

Lecco, Varenna & Bellanoare on the eastern side of Lake Como, there is a station at Lecco & Varenna-Esino (for the ferry to Bellagio) and Bellano on the Trenord local line linking Milan Centrale with Tirano (near the Swiss border, for the fabulous narrow-gauge Bernina route to Chur & Zurich).  Check times as above

How to reach Lake Garda

There are two main stations for Lake Garda, Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda , both on the Milan-Verona-Venice main line.  As well as regional trains, some Milan-Verona-Venice Frecciarossas call at Peschiera or Desenzano.

Alternatively, take a train to Verona Porta Nuova .  Buses run frequently times an hour from outside the station to the eastern shores of Lake Garda including Lazise, Bardonlino & Garda, see the bus company website www.atv.verona.it .

How to reach San Marino

San Marino has no rail station, but can easily be reached by bus from Rimini.  Buses leave from outside Rimini railway station every hour or so between 08:10 and 19:25 in winter, between 06:45 and 20:30 in summer, less frequently on winter Sundays, journey time 50 minutes, fare around €5.00 one-way.  You can check bus times and fares at the bus company website, www.bonellibus.it .

How to reach Sardinia

Ferries to Sardinia

Ferries sail from Civitavecchia, Livorno, Naples & Palermo to various ports on Sardinia including Olbia & Golfo Aranci in the north and Cagliariin the south.  Operators include Tirrenia, Grimaldi Lines, Corsica-Sardinia Ferries, use Direct Ferries to check and book all ferry routes & operators .

The shortest ferry crossing is Civitavecchia (just north of Rome) to Olbia where the daily daytime ferry takes 5h30, and an overnight ferry with cabins takes 7h.  A daily ferry with cabins links Naples with Caligari overnight.

Trains on Sardinia

Regional trains run by a division of Trenitalia link the major centres and ports:  Golfo Aranci, Olbia, Sassari, Porto Torres, Oristano, Cagliari.  You can check train times at www.trenitalia.com although as trains are classed as regional you may as well just buy tickets at the station on the day.

In addition to the main Trenitalia routes, tourist services called the Little Green Trains run on two or three very rural routes, see www.treninoverde.com (in Italian only, use Google Chrome translation feature).  These trains are run by transport authority ARST, a company formed by merging the urban transport authority with Sardinian Railways.

Airport train connections

Milan malpensa airport.

There are regional trains from Milan Malpensa airport to Milan Centrale every 30 minutes, journey time 52 minutes, fare around €12, no reservation necessary or possible, just buy a ticket at the station and hop on the next train.

Change at Milan Centrale for high-speed Frecciarossa & Frecciabianca trains to Venice, Florence, Rome, Naples or anywhere else in Italy.  You can check times & fares at www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com .  Reservation is required for Italian long-distance & high-speed trains, make sure you read the tips below.

Rome Fiumicino airport

Leonardo Express trains run from Rome Fiumicino airport to Rome Termini in the city centre every 30 minutes, journey time 32 minutes, fare around €14, no reservation necessary or possible, just buy a ticket at the station and hop on the next train.

Change at Rome Termini for high-speed Frecciarossa & Frecciargento trains to Venice, Florence, Naples or anywhere else in Italy - indeed, there's even a very occasional direct high-speed train from Rome Fiumicino Airport to Florence & Venice.   You can check times & fares at www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com - Reservation is required for Italian long-distance & high-speed trains, make sure you read the tips below.

Pisa airport

A people-mover (driverless train) shuttles passengers from Pisa airport to Pisa Centrale in the city centre in just 8 minutes.  Change at Pisa Centrale for hourly regional trains to Florence, and regular regional, Intercity or Frecciabianca trains to Rome, La Spezia and Monterosso in Cinque Terre.  You can check times & fares at www.trenitalia.com selecting Pisa fermata Aeroporto for Pisa airport station - but read the tips below.

Bologna airport

A people mover links Bologna Centrale with Bologna airport, for more info see the Bologna Centrale station guide .

Tips for buying plane-to-train tickets

The regional trains from Malpensa into Milan, from Fiumicino into Rome or from Pisa to Florence are no problem - you can turn up, buy a ticket at the station & hop on the next train.  No reservation is possible and no pre-booking necessary.  They cannot sell out.

But if you intend to catch an onward high-speed train from Milan or Rome to (let's say) Florence, Naples or Venice, remember that Italian high-speed trains require reservation and tickets are only valid on the specific train you book .

Cheap advance-purchase economy or super-economy tickets become worthless if your flight is late and you miss your train.  Even a flexible 'base' ticket becomes worthless one hour after departure if you can't get to a Trenitalia ticket counter to change the reservation to a later train.

So when arriving by air at Malpensa or Fiumicino and going to Florence, Naples, Venice and the like, you must choose one of two strategies:

Option 1, prioritise your budget:  The money-saving option is to buy a cheap Super-Economy fare and commit to a specific train in advance at www.italiarail.com or www.trenitalia.com , but allowing a hefty 3-4 hours between flight arrival and train, to allow for any flight delays or long lines at immigration.

Option 2, prioritise your time:  The time-saving option is to just buy a ticket at the base price when you get to the airport station.  Then you can buy a ticket for the first train leaving after you have landed, collected your bags and are ready to go.  I know this goes against the grain for overseas visitors desperate to reserve every Starbucks cappuccino 6 months ahead, but unless it's Christmas Eve or the like, you'll always find places available even right before departure as there are so many seats on so many trains, this shouldn't be a concern.  You can check what the base fare is by running an enquiry on www.italiarail.com , clicking on a train then clicking the button marked '+ show flexible fares'.  The flexible fare is what you pay at the station on the day.

A compromise option?    You may find it cheaper to book cheap advance-purchase tickets on two trains - the train you should easily make if your flight is on time and a back-up train an hour or two later - than to pay the base fare for one train as in the time-saving option above.  Or book one train that you should normally easily be able to make, then just accept that if the plane is significantly late, you'll have to buy another ticket at the base fare.

How to use Trenitalia.com

The Italian Railways website www.trenitalia.com is well worth getting to know.  It can sell:

Domestic Italian train tickets for any train journey within Italy, including couchettes & sleepers on overnight trains, at cheap prices with no booking fee.

International train tickets for most direct international trains starting in Italy heading for Paris, Switzerland, Austria, Germany and Slovenia, including couchettes & sleepers on overnight trains, again with cheap tickets if you pre-book.  Remember that ticket collection for trains to Austria & Germany is only possible at stations in Italy!

Or use Italiarail.com instead.   You may find www.italiarail.com easier to use than trenitalia.com for sleeper trains, international trains and passholder reservations.  ItaliaRail is a US-based agency who connects directly to the Trenitalia ticketing system to sell the same trains at the same prices as Trenitalia, but in plain English using English-language place names.  They charge a booking fee of around €3.50, but this will be refunded if you send them an email at [email protected] after you book.

How to use www.trenitalia.com

Base is the fully-flexible fare, it's what you'd pay at the station on the day.  Refundable, only valid on the train booked but can be changed before departure, or at the station up to an hour after departure.  The base fare was originally one fixed-price for a given journey, but as from late 2017 the base fare for Frecciarossa & Frecciargento trains can vary slightly by day of the week or the popularity of each particular train.

Economy & Super-Economy are Trenitalia's cheap advance-purchase fares, only valid on the train booked, limited refunds & changes, limited availability, these are the fares you want for cheap travel, if you are certain what time train you want.

Cartafreccia Special fares can only be bought if you have a Cartafreccia card, which you probably haven't.

Ordinaria is the regular fare for regional trains.  It's fixed-price, you can buy at that price even on the day.  In principle this fare is good for any train, but you now need to select a specific departure and check in online for it before boarding, see more about how regional tickets now work .

Posto Doppio - Compart. Intero = books a whole private 2-bed sleeper for 2 people.  If there's 2 of you, this is what you select for both passengers.

Posto Doppio - Uomo = reserves a bed or beds in a shared 2-bed sleepers, male-only compartments.

Posto Doppio - Donna = reserves a bed or beds in a shared 2-bed sleepers, ladies-only compartments.

Posto Singolo = single-bed sleeper, books one private compartment for one person.

Cuccette C4 Comfort-Promiscuo = bunk in shared 4-berth Comfort couchettes, normal mixed sex compartment.

Cuccette C4 Comfort - Donna = bunk in shared 4-berth Comfort couchettes, in special ladies-only compartment.

Cuccette C4 Comfort-Compart. Intero = whole 4-berth Comfort couchette compartment (must have 4 passengers selected).

Compartimento 3 Letti - Uomo = bed in shared 3-bed sleeper, male-only compartment.

Compartimento 3 Letti - Donna = bed in shared 3-bed sleeper, ladies-only compartment.

Compartimento 3 Letti - Intero = 3-bed sleeper, whole compartment (need to have pre-selected 3 passengers).

To book 2 people together in a 2-bed sleeper you'd select Posto Doppio - Compart. Intero for both passengers.

On some international routes they use slightly different sleeper terminology:

Cabina A3 = 3-berth.  Cabina A2 = 2-berth.  Gran classe = deluxe with shower & toilet.

But again, Uomo means male, donna means female, intera means you want to book a whole compartment.

Other problems?   If you get stuck, you can contact Trenitalia's web team at [email protected]  to unfreeze frozen accounts and so forth.  They can handle emails in English.  Or you can call Trenitalia telesales on +11 39 06 6847 5475.

How to use Trenitalia ticket machines

It's easy to buy tickets at the station using the self-service ticket machines at all main Italian stations, as long as you have a credit card with a PIN (4-digit personal identification number).  They have an English language facility, and it's faster and easier than using the ticket office.  The machines are pretty self-explanatory, but to give you confidence and so you know what to expect, here's how to use them.

Incidentally, you'll sometimes find annoying types who hang around offering to 'help' foreigners, just be healthily suspicious of them and refuse all help, you don't need it as the machines are self-explanatory and you certainly don't need anyone near your wallet or pockets while you are distracted.  Italian stations are perfectly safe (I've spent literally hours hanging round them out of professional interest, without any problem whatsoever), but it pays to be streetwise!

To buy a ticket

Children under 4 go free with no ticket needed, children under 12 can use a child rate ticket on regional trains, children under 14 can use a child ticket on Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca, InterCity & InterCity Notte mainline trains.

Paying for a guidebook may seem an unnecessary expense, but it's only a fraction of what you spend on the whole trip.  If you have a decent guidebook, you see so much more and know so much more about what you're looking at.  I think the Lonely Planets or Rough Guides are the best ones out there for the independent traveller.

Click the images to buy at Amazon.co.uk

Or buy in the usa from amazon.com.

Alternatively, you can download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

European Rail Timetable & maps

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south.  Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted.  See an extract from the map .  Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (shipping worldwide) or at www.amazon.co.uk (UK addresses).

Recommended hotels

Here are my suggested hotels in key Italian cities, conveniently located for arrival by train and all with good or great reviews.  You are unlikely to be disappointed by any hotel scoring over 8.0 out of 10 on Booking.com .

There are lots of hotels near Milan Centrale , used by the Frecciarossa to/from Paris, the EuroCity trains to/from Switzerland and the majority of Italian domestic trains.

Affordable hotels & guesthouses with good or great reviews just outside the station include the Hotel Bristol , Hotel Bernina , 43 Station Hotel , B&B Hotel Milano Central Station , Guesthouse Teodora .

M ore upmarket hotels include HD8 Hotel , Glam Hotel , Made to Measure Business , Starhotel Echo or Starhotel Anderson .

At the top end, the 5-star Excelsior Hotel Gallia is just across the road, you won't go wrong with that if your budget will stretch!

Near Milan Porta Garibaldi (used by the TGV to/from Paris), the AC Milano Hotel (a Marriott Lifestyle Hotel) is just 350m from the station and gets good reviews.  Also try the Holiday Inn Porta Garibaldi , which offers family rooms.

Hotels near Verona Porta Nuova station with good or great reviews include the Corte Merighi Rooms & Breakfast , Novo Hotel Rossi , Guesthouse Verona or (a little closer to the centre, but with fab reviews) the Relais Empire .

Location, location, location!   Some people try to save money by staying on the mainland at Mestre , hotels in Mestre being naturally cheaper.  It's an option, but don't do it if you don't have to.  You want to be a resident in Venice, not a serial day-tripper, so try to find an affordable place in the historic city of Venice itself.

Venice Santa Lucia station is walking distance from everywhere in central Venice including the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco, so a hotel near the station which you can easily walk to with your bags makes a lot of sense.

Relatively inexpensive places with good reviews near Venice Santa Lucia include Albergo Marin , Hotel Marte , La Loggia della Luna , Albergo ai Tolentini .

An excellent upmarket choice just 5 minutes walk from Venice Santa Lucia is the small and intimate Hotel Canal Grande - I've stayed there myself.  Also try the Abazzia De Luxe .

For the least expensive places in central Venice check www.hostelworld.com .  Use the map view to see places in Venice itself.

Of course, if you have the financial backing for a water taxi, then fine, stay near San Marco or wherever you like.  My son nagged me continually until I caved in and splurged €70 on a water taxi from Santa Lucia station to St Marks.  I have to say that it was the best thing I have ever done in Venice, and that includes a gondola ride!

If you do decide to stay in Mestre to save money and travel in & out of Venice by train every day, try the Hotel Cris which has great reviews 200m from Venezia Mestre station , and the Best Western Plus Hotel Bologna .

In Florence

For something fancy, try the Hotel Santa Maria Novella with a 9/10 review score and rooftop terrace overlooking the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella.  It's a mere 5-minute 400m walk from Florence Santa Maria Novella station .

For something more affordable but also an easy walk from the station, try the Hotel Art Atelier .

Other hotels nearby with good reviews include C-hotels Club , 7Florence B&B , Hotel Lombardia .

There are many hotels near Rome Termini .  However, an affordable top choice with a 9/10 review rating is the Hotel Diocleziano , a 5-minute 400m walk from Roma Termini's main entrance, set in a 19th century building next to the Terme di Diocleziano ancient Roman baths.

An upmarket option near the station is Hotel Le Petit , an 8-minute 700m walk from the station, also with great reviews.

Other hotels near the station with good or great reviews include The Hive Hotel , Dream Station , The Republic Hotel .

There are lots of hotels near Naples Centrale .

The Starhotel Terminus is just across the road from the station, gets great reviews and has a roof terrace with views over the Bay of Naples.

The Hotel Potenza is only a little further into the Piazza Garibaldi, cheaper, also with good reviews.

The Unahotel Napoli is highly recommended, on Piazza Mancini overlooking Piazza Garibaldi, on the far side facing the station.

Also consider the Pit Stop Napoli Centrale .

Booking.com for hotels

I generally use Booking.com for hotels for 3 reasons:

(1) It keeps all my hotel bookings together in one place;

(2) I've come to trust Booking.com 's review scores;

(3) Booking.com usually offers a clearly-marked Free cancellation option.

Free cancellation means you can secure hotels risk-free even before trains open for booking, and if necessary change those bookings if your plans evolve.

If I'm only staying a night or two, I look for a hotel near the station to make arrival & departure easy.  You can enter the station name (e.g. Berlin Hbf ) as search location.  If staying longer, I look for a hotel close to the sights, entering the name of a city attraction as the search location, then using map view.

AirBnB:  Airbnb.com

www.airbnb.com began in 2008 when two designers who had space to share hosted three travellers looking for a place to stay.  AirBnB is a platform which connects hosts with guests, so you can now book a room in people's homes, or an apartment, flat or house which people want to rent out.  It can be nicer than a hostel, cheaper than many hotels.

Backpacker hostels:  Hostelworld.com

www.hostelworld.com offers online booking of dorm beds or cheap private rooms in backpacker hostels most European cities at rock-bottom prices.  It's one way to cut costs significantly compared to using a hotel every night.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer.  It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit.  These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here .  Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  There's no need to buy a physical SIM card!  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.  And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone.  You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or Buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities?  Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa.  They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities.  My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

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How to Travel by Train in Italy: A Guide to Easy Rides

Buongiorno, train travel enthusiasts! This is Max, your conductor on the journey through Italy’s splendid landscapes! Are you wondering how to travel by train in Italy?

You’re on the right track! Let’s discover together how to traverse Italy’s beauty, all from the comfort of a train carriage.

Planning Your Itinerary

When planning a train itinerary through Italy, accurate scheduling and route selection are crucial for a seamless journey.

1. Major City Connections

Italy is home to some of Europe’s most iconic cities, including Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. When planning your travel to connect these hubs by rail, consider distance, regional attractions, and train frequencies.

• Rome to Florence: Approximately 1.5 hours on a high-speed train.
• Florence to Venice : Around 2 hours, perfect for a swift transition to the canals.
• Venice to Milan: It takes just under 2.5 hours to connect the city of Lagoon with the fashion capital .

2. Scenic Routes and Destinations

Creating an itinerary that enables leisure and exploration is essential for those planning to explore Italy’s rich history and culture.

• Cinque Terre : The Cinque Terre Express train runs from La Spezia to Levanto, linking all five coastal towns.
• Naples, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast : Accessible from Rome with regional trains.
• Sicily : Longer journey with an overnight train option from Rome or Naples, including ferry crossing.

3. Planning Day Trips

• Pompeii is a popular day trip . The local Circumvesuviana or Campania express service makes it reachable from Naples in less than an hour.
• Layovers : Consider other picturesque towns like Siena or Lucca for short layovers.

4. Recommended Train Itinerary Sequence:

• Start in Rome for its ancient allure.
• Proceed to Florence , the cradle of the Renaissance.
• Head north to Venice to experience its enchanting canals.
• Conclude in Milan , intertwining history with modern sophistication.

Faster high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Italo) are one of the most efficient ways to travel quickly between cities. Regional services offer a more scenic, albeit slower, journey. Let’s explore the train types in Italy.

Suggested Read : 35 Best Travel Guide Books for Italy to Read

Understanding Train Types in Italy

In Italy, trains are categorized based on their speed, the distances they cover, and their primary use. Grasping the differences between these train types is essential for travelers looking to navigate the Italian rail network efficiently.

1. High-Speed Trains (Trenitalia, Italo)

Operated by Trenitalia and Italo, high-speed trains can reach speeds over 300 km/h, significantly cutting travel time between Italian cities.

Trenitalia , the country’s main train operator, is a joint venture between the Italian government and a consortium of private investors. It manages the renowned “Frecce” trains.

• Frecciarossa , or ‘Red Arrow,’ is Trenitalia’s premier high-speed service. It connects major cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence with frequent daily services.
• Frecciargento , or ‘Silver Arrow,’ reaches locations that are not accessible by the Frecciarossa trains.
• Frecciabianca , or ‘White Arrow,’ covers long-distance routes at high speeds but not as rapidly as the Frecciarossa or the Frecciargento.

Italo is a private high-speed train service that offers a competitive option to Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa. Its focus is on passenger comfort and amenities.

2. Intercity Trains

Intercity trains bridge the gap between faster trains and regional services. They cover longer distances with fewer stops than regional trains.

3. Regional Trains

Regional trains connect local destinations within Italian regions. They make frequent stops and offer an economical way to travel short distances.

Purchasing Train Tickets

When traveling by train in Italy, you have various options for purchasing tickets, from online platforms to ticket machines at stations.

As tickets can become available 3 to 6 months before travel, booking your train in advance is often recommended to secure availability, especially for popular routes. 

Online Ticketing

Passengers looking for convenience can purchase Italian train tickets online. Websites like Trenitalia or Omio offer a user-friendly interface where one can check schedules and buy tickets. After purchasing, you’ll typically receive an e-ticket, which can be printed or displayed on a smartphone.

Buying Tickets in Advance

Securing train tickets in advance is advisable, particularly for faster trains or long-distance travel, where reservations are mandatory. Purchasing in advance can also lead to better prices and guaranteed seating.

Ticket Machines at Stations

Italian train stations are equipped with ticket machines, which allow passengers to buy tickets quickly on the day of travel.

These machines, available in multiple languages, accept credit cards and cash. It’s essential to validate the ticket at the small machines on the platform before boarding.

Traveling Without Reservations

For regional trains, it’s possible to travel without a reservation. In this case, you can buy tickets at station ticket machines or counters shortly before departure. However, you should be aware that without a reservation, a seat is not guaranteed if the train is full.

Ticket Pricing and Fares

Fare structures in Italy are categorized by train type and class. Ticket costs vary depending on the speed of the train, the class of service, and the route distance.

Regional trains are the most economical option, often with fixed prices that do not fluctuate with demand.

Intercity and faster trains like the Frecciarossa or Italo offer variable pricing structures, similar to airlines, where fares increase as the departure time nears or during peak travel periods.

Once again, you can save money by booking advance tickets , as last-minute fares tend to be more expensive. The most affordable base fare train tickets in Italy, known as Super Economy tickets, are available for early purchase and do not permit any modifications or cancellations.

Discounts for Children and Youth

Children typically receive discounts, with some rail operators offering heavily discounted or even free travel for children under a certain age when accompanied by an adult. Specifically:

• Children under three years old travel free on Italo trains if seated on an adult’s lap. 
• Children aged 4 to 15 years (or up to 12 years on regional trains) benefit from a 50% fare reduction on Trenitalia.
• The Carta Verde (Green Card) is a special discount card designed for youths aged 12 to 26 . A yearly plan costs 40 euros.

Discounts for Seniors

Seniors may also be eligible for reduced fares, but these offers can vary between train operators.

They have the option to purchase Trenitalia’s Carta d’Argento (Silver Card) for €30 annually, which is available to individuals aged 60 to 75 and complimentary for those over 75. Additionally, Italo provides a 40% discount to senior passengers on select fares.

Travel Italy by Train: Using a Rail Pass

Rail passes like Eurail offer travelers an efficient and cost-effective way to explore Italy by train. Passholders can enjoy flexible travel and often receive discounts on local transportation. 

Purchasing a Rail Pass

To use a rail pass in Italy, one must purchase it before arriving, as they are not available for sale within the country. There are various types of Eurail passes to choose from:

• Italy Pass : Unlimited travel within Italy.
• Global Pass : Unlimited travel in 33 European countries.

Validity Periods

Eurail passes are valid for different lengths of time, ranging from days to months, and can be flexi-passes (a set number of travel days within a longer period) or continuous passes (unlimited travel within the validity period).

Train Reservations

While many Italian trains do not require reservations, high-speed and overnight trains often do. Passholders are advised to book these in advance, paying a reservation fee.

Benefits and Discounts

Eurail pass holders may receive:

• Access to ferries and buses.
• Reduced rates on private railways and local transit.
• Discounts on certain hotels and attractions.

Using the Pass

When using a Eurail pass, you must:

• Activate the pass at a train station in Italy.
• Write the date of travel on each travel day.
• Show the pass along with a passport when requested by train staff.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Check schedule changes : Train schedules can vary, especially on public holidays.
• Keep your pass safe : Lost or stolen rail passes are like losing cash and can be costly to replace.
• Understand pass limitations : The rail pass does not cover all trains and routes.

Finding and Navigating Train Stations

Locating a train station often involves looking for the well-marked sign “ Stazione ,” which makes it easy to identify.

Main train stations across the country are uniquely named, with the most common including Milano Centrale, Venezia Santa Lucia, Bologna Centrale, Firenze Santa Maria Novella, Torino Porta Nuova, Roma Termini, and Napoli Centrale. 

Once at the station, timetables are prominently displayed, providing travelers with up-to-date schedules for all departing and arriving trains.

An essential first step is to identify your departure platform (binario), which is listed alongside your train number and target location.

Navigating Italian train stations requires attention to detail: signs indicate platform ( binario ) numbers, directions, and facilities.

Station staff is usually on hand to assist in case of confusion; they can be found wearing uniforms at information desks or throughout the station.

For those unfamiliar with Italian , announcements and station signs are often available in English, especially in main stations and tourist-heavy areas.

Suggested Read : 135 Basic Italian Phrases for Travel: PDF Cheat Sheet

Train Schedules and Frequency

When traveling by train in Italy, passengers find punctuality and frequency to be critical aspects of the experience. Italian trains typically adhere to a regular schedule designed to cater to frequent intercity connections and less frequent regional services.

Intercity and High-Speed Trains:

• As mentioned earlier, Frecce trains   primarily serve the major routes connecting main cities such as Turin , Milan, Venice, Bologna , Florence, Rome, Naples, and Bari. The table below represents their standard frequency.

Regional Trains:

• Regional trains , or treni regionali , typically run less frequently, especially in more rural or less populated areas. Schedules for these services may vary from one train every few hours to a more consistent hourly basis.

Train schedules are available online, at stations, and through various mobile apps. They are routinely updated to reflect changes due to maintenance works or seasonal adjustments. You are encouraged to check the Trenitalia or Italo  websites for the most accurate train schedules. 

Pre-Train Departure Procedures

Before boarding a train in Italy, you must follow several key steps to ensure a smooth journey. Validating tickets, locating the correct train and carriage, and handling luggage properly are all integral parts of the pre-departure process.

Ticket Validation

Ticket validation is a crucial step in the pre-departure process. Typically, you must use the validation machines located at the station before boarding.

This process confirms the date and time of travel, preventing ticket re-use. Unvalidated tickets can result in fines, so you should ensure to complete this step before heading to the platform.

Finding Your Train and Carriage

Once tickets are validated, proceed to find their train and carriage. The train number and departure information are displayed on electronic display boards throughout the station.

Train number and departure time are the key details needed to locate the correct platform. Upon arriving at the specified platform, carriage numbers are visibly displayed beside train doors or on electronic displays along the platform.

Onboard Train Amenities and Services

Luggage Accommodations: Passengers are responsible for loading and unloading their own luggage on trains and can expect decent luggage storage on trains in Italy.

Overhead luggage racks are accessible for small luggage, while designated spaces at the ends of carriages are designed for larger suitcases. 

Dining Options: Most long-distance and high-speed trains offer food and beverages. A dining car or a trolley service provides a variety of meals suitable for a range of tastes and preferences, including options for those with dietary restrictions.

Comfort and Accessibility: You will find modern comforts such as air conditioning and power outlets for charging electronic devices. Seats are designed to provide comfortable travel, with options for first or second class, each differing in space and services offered. 

The Truth About Train Travel Classes: What Really Matters

Deciding between first class and second class for your train ticket? The differences are minimal, primarily in dining options.

First Class (also called Executive Class) often includes food service, whereas Second Class might only have a vending machine (or nothing at all). 

Both classes on fast trains like Italo and Frecciarossa offer comfort, making an upgrade optional. For a quieter journey, consider a first-class silent car with restricted cell phone use, ensuring a serene trip to your Italian locale.

Accessibility and Traveling with Children

When taking a train trip through Italy with children, one can anticipate a safe and comfortable experience.

Italian transportation law mandates accessibility for all, ensuring that train stations and carriages cater to the needs of travelers with disabilities.

For Parents and Guardians:

• Documents: Children, including infants, require their own travel documents , such as passports.
• Expectations: Train travel can be lengthy; pack snacks, toys, and entertainment to keep young travelers content.

Travelers with Disabilities:

• Facilities: Most train stations offer wheelchair accessibility, including restrooms and ticket counters. Always verify in advance the level of accessibility available, as not all trains and stations may be equally equipped.
• Assistance: It is advisable to contact the train company ahead of time if specific assistance is required.

While Onboard:

• Seating: Look for priority seating, which is typically available for those with reduced mobility or those traveling with young children.
• Safety: Keep children supervised, especially when boarding or disembarking the train.

Traveling with Infants:

• Healthcare: If you have any health-related concerns, such as dehydration in infants or young children with diarrhea, seek immediate medical attention. Remember to maintain adequate hydration as a key element of travel health management.

Connecting Transports and Transfers

When traveling by train in Italy, passengers can enjoy seamless connections to various modes of transportation upon arrival at their destination station.

This section outlines the transition from trains to buses, station taxi services, and car rental options.

Taxi Services at Stations

Train stations, especially at major urban centers, are equipped with designated taxi areas . Taxis are a reliable option for direct transfers to a final destination, with clearly marked ranks and regulated fares. You should look for officially licensed, usually white taxis, and display a taxi sign.

From Train to Bus

At most Italian train stations, bus terminals are nearby or directly adjacent to the station. These buses serve local urban routes and suburban areas not covered by rail services. Timetables are typically synchronized with train arrivals, facilitating hassle-free transfers.

Car Rentals

For those requiring flexibility or planning to visit areas less accessible by public transport, car rental services are available at key train stations.

Rental desks are often located within or just outside the station. Renting a car in advance is advisable to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates.

Suggested Read : Traveling to Bologna and planning to rent a car? Read Renting a Car in Bologna: Your Essential Guide .

Overnight and Long-Distance Trains

Overnight and long-distance trains efficiently traverse the expansive Italian countryside and coastal regions, connecting cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan to lesser-known locations.

Overnight trains, such as Trenitalia’s Intercity Notte , provide sleeper cabins and couchettes, allowing you to rest and arrive refreshed at your destination. Comfort varies by train type and class, with options usually including:

• Sleeper cabins: Private compartments with beds.
• Couchettes: Shared compartments with bunk beds.

When you consider it, traveling overnight this way is not only a time-saver but often a cost-effective alternative to hotels. You awaken to new landscapes, having covered significant ground during the night.

Italo and Frecciarossa services present options for long-distance travel, shrinking the travel time between cities. Itineraries are straightforward, and stations are well-connected, making train travel a prime choice for those seeking efficiency.

Popular Train Routes

Italy’s train network offers an extensive range of routes connecting major cities and scenic destinations efficiently and comfortably. Below are some of the most recommended train routes in Italy:

Rome to Florence : This route connects Italy’s capital with the heart of Tuscany. A high-speed train ride lasts about 1.5 hours on the Frecciarossa or Italo , making a day trip feasible.

Rome to Milan : Traversing the length of Northern Italy, the journey from Rome to Milan takes approximately 3 hours via faster train—ideal for business travelers or tourists.

Rome to Naples : A beloved route for travelers seeking the allure of the Amalfi Coast and historical sites such as Pompeii, Rome to Naples only takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours on the fastest services.

Train Routes Table:

For an enriching travel experience, consider stops in smaller towns or detours along the way to fully appreciate regional diversity.

Certain local and regional train lines are favorites among international tourists, such as the journeys from Florence to Cinque Terre or Siena and the trips from Rome to Salerno or Sorrento along the Amalfi Coast.

Suggested Read : Craving a voyage along the Italian coast after your train adventure? Read 12 Top Cruise Ports in Italy: A Mediterranean Journey .

Tips for an Enjoyable Train Experience

It may seem like common sense, but it bears mentioning: for the best train travel experience , you should:

• Arrive early : Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure to find platforms and settle in without rushing.
• Pack light : Travel with minimal luggage for ease of movement within stations and onboard trains.
• Keep documents handy : Always have your passport and ticket accessible for inspections.

Understanding the rail system is key when planning to travel to Italy by train. Familiarize yourself with the different types of trains and select the one that best suits your travel needs and budget.

Traveling During Peak Seasons

Peak times typically include summer months, especially August, and key holidays such as Easter and Christmas.

Schedules : During these periods, train schedules are often more crowded, and ticket availability may be limited . It is crucial for travelers to book their tickets well in advance.

Holidays: As Italian holidays approach, train stations become hubs of activity. Locals and tourists alike tend to travel to their holiday destinations, which can significantly impact train capacity and punctuality. The increased demand during holidays may lead to higher ticket prices and longer transit times.

Staying Safe and Secure

When exploring Italy via rail,  safety should be a top priority . Remain vigilant, especially in crowded stations or on busy trains. Personal belongings should be kept secure at all times to prevent theft. Utilizing anti-theft bags or waist packs can be beneficial.

Here is a concise breakdown of safety measures:

• Personal Belongings : Keep these items out of sight and secure to avoid attracting attention.
• Awareness : Stay alert to your surroundings.
• Health Safety : Train travel during certain health events may require additional precautions, like wearing a mask if necessary. Don’t forget to sanitize or wash your hands frequently.
• Emergency Contacts : Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local police, your country’s embassy or consulate ( U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy ), and family members.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers common queries about train services, ticketing options, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey.

What are the most recommended train services to use within Italy?

Italy’s primary train service provider, Trenitalia , offers extensive routes connecting major cities and regions. It is renowned for punctuality and efficient service. Another notable option is Italo, which is known for its faster trains and modern amenities.

What options are available for purchasing train tickets in Italy?

Train tickets for trips in Italy can be purchased online, through mobile apps, at ticket machines, or train station ticket counters. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for long-distance travel, to secure the best fares.

Can travelers buy unlimited train passes for Italy, and what are the options?

Travelers can opt for the Eurail Italy Pass or the Interrail Italy Pass, which offers unlimited travel within Italy for a set number of days. These passes provide flexibility and can be cost-saving for tourists planning to visit multiple locations. I invite you to read this excellent article by Rick Steves about Italian rail passes. 

How far in advance should I purchase my train tickets? 

For smoother Italian train travel, booking your tickets 3 to 6 months ahead, particularly for busy routes, is advisable to ensure you get a seat.

What should one know about managing luggage during train travel in Italy?

Passengers are usually allowed to bring luggage on Italian trains without an extra fee. Storage areas are available at the ends of carriages or above seats. Still, passengers should monitor their belongings, as train stations and trains are public spaces.

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Train Travel in Italy: The Ultimate Guide

Train travel in Italy is relatively easy, but may pose some challenges if you have never been to the country or if you are not used to this mode of transportation. This is why we have created this ultimate guide to traveling by train in Italy, which you can also print out and carry with you during your trip as a reference. 

Let’s look at the main points to consider. 

What is the Best Way to Get Around Italy?

Buying an italian train ticket, arriving at the train station in italy, safety at the train station.

• Types of Italian Trains
• Should I Book a First Class Ticket or a Second Class Ticket?  
• What To Do If Your Train is Canceled or Delayed

How to Pack for Train Travel in Italy 

• Train Travel Times for the Most Common Italian Routes  

The Most Important Train Stations in Italy

The train is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel around Italy, however this does not mean you have to do it all by train. Whether you use the train for all or part of your Italian trip depends on the itinerary that you are planning. If you do the classic Rome-Florence-Venice tour, then you can do it all easily by train, and it is the recommended option because the train stations in these cities are conveniently located in the city centers and you do not need a car to tour them. If you plan to visit the countryside or the mountains, you should consider renting a car as it gives you more freedom and flexibility. You can also combine different modes of transport: train between major art cities, a rental car for an on the road and to reach smaller towns and hilltop towns that may not be as well connected, plane if you need to go from the north to the south of Italy or vice versa. 

Most train stations in Italy are located in or very close to the city center (hence why many have ‘centrale’ in their name), so they’re very easy to reach, sometimes even on foot from your centrally located hotel. 

Where Italian trains are the best or only choice:

• Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples, Milan, Cinque Terre

Where Italian trains are better avoided:

• Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Sardinia, remote countryside

Where a car is a good option, but you can also get by with trains and buses:

• Tuscany, Umbria, the Dolomites 

You have two options to buy train tickets for your Italian trip:

• Buy your ticket online in advance via the train company’s website (Trenitalia and Italo), an intermediary like Italian train travel specialists ItaliaRail , or through your travel agent;
• Directly at the train station in Italy, either at the ticketing window or using the self-serve ticket machines (instructions are available in English and the machines accept credit cards).

We recommend buying your tickets in advance whenever possible so that you do not have to wait in line, deal with a machine if you’re in a hurry, you have more seat options, plus having your trip mapped out beforehand can save you precious time while in Italy.

As a general rule of thumb, the sooner you book, the cheaper the fare. Seniors and children (or family packages) generally have reduced fares on Trenitalia’s Frecce and Italo. 

*For more information about buying train tickets in Italy, see our dedicated feature .

First of all, always arrive early (at least 20 minutes before your train’s departure time). Train stations in major cities like Rome, Milan and Bologna are very big and you may have to walk five to ten minutes to reach your track ( binario in Italian). 

The first thing you want to do when you get to the train station in Italy is to find the electronic board with the trains departure information. There are several throughout the stations, with the bigger one in the main hall and ticketing area, and smaller ones on each platform, in underground passages and waiting areas.

The board has the following information:

• Type of train and train number ( treno )
• Train’s final destination ( destinazione )
• Departure time ( orario )
• Delay ( ritardo ) - expect a 5-10 minute delay as standard in Italy
• Information ( informazioni ) - this usually displays the intermediate stops of the train with arrival times and where the different classes are located scrolling by
• Platform number ( binario )

To identify your train, look for the train number on your ticket, as the destination shown on the board is the final one, but your destination may be an intermediate stop (which you will see in the part of the display that scrolls by). 

If your train does not have a specific train number, date and time printed on it, you must validate it before boarding . Look for a green, white or yellow electronic box and insert your ticket into it to get it timestamped (ie validated) before getting on your train (the validation lasts for six hours). This mostly applies to regional trains. You do not need to validate your ticket if you are taking a Freccia high-speed train or Italo train (see below for specifics). 

When at the platform, double-check that the train you are about to board is the right one by looking at one of the several boards positioned overhead along the track, it specifies train number and destination.

Also, make sure to board the correct carriage; the number is visible on the side of the train, on an electronic sign on the door, and before boarding, on a screen overhead. This way you will avoid creating more confusion and blocking aisles as you walk through carriages to reach your seat.  

Generally speaking, traveling by train in Italy is safe, but be vigilant of pickpockets and other petty criminals that may target disoriented travelers intent on finding their way through the station. Always carry your bag in the front, and consider investing in a money belt to place your passport, credit card, money and important documents. 

If your luggage on the train is not close to you (ie if it’s big you’re going to have to place it in the luggage area at the front or end of the carriage), take a look at it when the train stops at intermediate stations.

Do not accept help from strangers who may offer to carry your luggage or help you get a ticket at the ticketing machine. They may insist on getting a ‘tip’ from you once their ‘service’ is done and not leave until you do. Just send them away as soon as they approach you. 

Types of Italian Trains 

Two companies run trains in Italy: Trenitalia and Italo. For a long time, Trenitalia has been the only railway company in Italy and to this day it has the widest network and routes. Italo began operating in 2012, and offers high-speed service between major Italian cities. 

When traveling on Trenitalia, you have three different types of train to choose from which differ based on speed and price. 

Le Frecce - they are Trenitalia’s most modern, comfortable and fastest trains, which also means they cost more. They require advance reservation, have seat assignment, and provide most of the high-speed service on the main lines between Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Rome, Naples, and Bari. 

There are three types of Frecce: 

Frecciarossa : the fastest and most expensive trains, traveling up to 300 km/h. They connect Italy’s biggest cities (Turin, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Naples), but not Venice. Frecciargento : these trains use both the high-speed and traditional lines; they are not as fast as the Frecciarossa and take you to main cities such as Florence, Bologna, Rome, and Naples, but not to Milan or Turin. They go to Venice and southern regions like Apulia and Calabria.

Frecciabianca : the slowest among the Frecce, they run on traditional lines and connect large and medium-sized cities in 14 of the 20 Italian regions (Valle d’Aosta, Trentino Alto Adige, Umbria, Basilicata, Sicily and Sardinia are not covered).

Intercity - these trains are less expensive than the Frecce ; they operate outside of the high speed line, therefore your trip will take longer. They connect medium to large cities across Italy, making few intermediate stops. It is not always possible to reserve your seat in advance. These trains are usually quite old and don’t have amenities like wi-fi and restaurant service, available on the Frecce .

Regional trains   - the cheapest option, these trains are used by locals to get to and from work and school, connecting minor towns and villages. You cannot reserve a seat in advance, therefore if you need to take a regional train, try to avoid rush hours. Coaches are mostly second class, with only one or two reserved for first (which in this case you may want to get). These are the trains you would take for example if you were going to the Cinque Terre or to Assisi.

General tip : use the Frecce to reach the biggest cities, then use regionali to move around the region to smaller centers (when possible - sometimes you will need to take a bus instead; sometimes renting a car will be the easiest option). 

Should I Book a First Class Ticket or a Second Class Ticket? 

All trains generally offer first class and second class, or, in the most modern trains, ‘standard’, ‘premium’, ‘business’, ‘executive’ (the most expensive, the less seats available and the less people around you). What corresponds to second class (or standard) on the Frecce and Italo is absolutely decent, but obviously more crowded, so if you wish for tranquility and silence, go for an upper class of service. You may want to step up to first class on the Intercity and regional trains.  

What To Do If Your Train is Canceled or Delayed 

When you travel by train in Italy, you should be aware that things don’t always go as smoothly as you may expect in countries such as, say, Switzerland or Germany. Try to remain patient as your train may be canceled or delayed because of a strike, an accident or repairs on the line. 

As reported on the Trenitalia website:

- if your Freccia train is delayed by 30 to 59 minutes, Trenitalia will issue a bonus equal to 25% of the ticket price that you can use for future purchases.  

- If your Freccia train is over an hour late when you get to your destination, you are entitled to a compensation equal to: 25%   of the ticket price for a delay ranging from 60 to 119 minutes; 50%   of the ticket price for a delay of more than 120 minutes. The compensation may be issued in the form of a bonus for a new ticket to be purchased within 12 months; cash if the ticket was paid cash or refund on the card that you used for payment.

You can request your bonus after 24 hours from the date of travel and up to 12 months, at the ticket office of any train station, online on the Trenitalia website, at the travel agency that issued the ticket, or by calling the Call Center. 

Use this page for reference .

Pack light! You don’t want to have to carry around a huge suitcase that is hard to lift and lower when you get on and off the train. Remember, there are a few steep steps up (and down) the train, there may be stairs to the platforms, especially in the older stations where you won’t find the automatic ones, and you may have to walk the distance in large train stations like Rome Termini or Bologna Centrale. 

Go for a light carry-on or even a backpack, this will be helpful in general as you may decide to also walk between your hotel and the train station. 

We have a great feature with general tips on how to pack for travel to Italy by Sarah Murdoch, a Rick Steves tour guide and Italy expert. 

Train Travel Times for the Most Common Italian Routes  

Rome – Florence 

1 hour 31 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia)  

1 hour 23 minutes (Italo)

Rome – Venice 

3 hours 45 minutes (Frecciargento – Trenitalia)

3 hours 45 minutes (Italo)

Rome – Milan 

2 hours 55 minutes / 3 hours 20 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia) 

3 hours 14 minutes (Italo)

Rome – Naples  

1 hour 10 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia) 

1 hour 20 minutes (Italo)

Florence – Milan 

1 hour 40 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia) 

1 hour 50 minutes (Italo)

Florence – Venice 

2 hours 5 minutes (Frecciargento – Trenitalia) 

2 hours 5 minutes (Italo)

Milan – Venice 

2 hours 23 minutes / 2 hours 35 minutes (Frecciabianca – Trenitalia) 

Milan – Naples 

4 hours 40 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia)

4 hours 31 minutes (Italo)

• Rome: Roma Termini
• Florence: Firenze Santa Maria Novella
• Venice: Venezia Santa Lucia
• Milan: Milano Centrale
• Naples: Napoli Centrale
• Turin: Torino Porta Nuova
• Bologna: Bologna Centrale 

Now that you know everything you need to know about train travel in Italy, enjoy the ride as you watch Italy’s beautiful scenery roll by!

For more Italian train travel, check our dedicated section , Italy by Train. 

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Train Travel In Italy – Top Tips to Travel By Train in Italy

Always more travelers opt for train travel in Italy and I think it really is one of the best ways to get around the country. Traveling by train in Italy is easy, affordable, and gets you to all the major cities and many smaller towns.

This guide aims to make train traveling in Italy smooth and easy. By the end of the article, you will be able to decide what trains is best for you, where to buy your train tickets in Italy and online, and what are the most popular Italian train routes.

Table of Contents

How to plan your train travel in Italy

Different trains in italy.

If you are planning to travel by train in Italy, the first difference you need to know is between trains. The Italian trains mainly fall into three categories: the high-speed bullet trains, the regional trains, and the InterCity.

High-speed trains in Italy

The high-speed trains are Trenitalia’s Freccia and Italo’s bullet trains. Trenitalia has Frecciarossa and Frecciabianca, which slightly differ in the onboard services.

When buying an Italian high-speed train ticket, you will have several price options depending on the fare and the class you choose. There are usually 1st and 2nd classes as well as business and premium classes.

Italian regional and local trains

The regional trains show either R or RV before the numeric code, with R standing for “regionale” (regional) and RV standing for “regionale veloce” (fast regional). These are the same type of train but when it’s RV, they don’t do every single stop, usually skipping the smaller, less busy stations/towns.

Italian InterCity trains

The InterCity (IC) train category falls between that of Trenitalia’s Frecciabianca and that of the regional trains. It’s the lowest among the reservation train categories. InterCity trains connect over 200 Italian cities and, unlike the regional trains, you can reserve 1st or 2nd class seats.

High-speed trains in Italy: Freccia and Italo compared

Many wonder whether they should book Trenitalia’s Freccia or Italo’s high-speed trains. Even though my preference goes to Frecciarossa, overall, they are very similar and they both run through the Alta Velocità (high-speed) railway.

Italo’s bullet trains are slightly cheaper but I find Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa more comfortable inside. Generally, if you need to take them for a short journey, you can opt for the cheaper alternative and you won’t experience much difference.

READ: Make sure you have everything sorted out with our extensive Italy travel guide

Choosing the right train

Choosing the right train in Italy comes down to a few factors: availability, costs, and speed.

High-speed trains are more expensive but get you to the destination faster because they run on a different railway and because they don’t make any stops. These are the best options if you need to get from one big city to another in a short time.

Regional trains are much slower and much cheaper. In these trains, you don’t need to book your spot in advance and you can sit wherever you find a place. They are the best solution if you need to go to a smaller town. They are very widespread and you might be surprised by how many small villages have a train station.

The Intercity trains are a good option if you want to spend less while making longer journeys without having to change trains. These are the trains you can find on night routes and you need to reserve your spot as you will have your own seat.

Where to buy train tickets in Italy

In Italy, you can buy train tickets in the newsagents and ticket offices present in the larger stations or from the vending machines available in every station, as the smaller ones.

Newsagents will usually have tickets for the regional trains while to book Freccia, Italo, or InterCity trains, you should go to the ticket offices or directly buy them yourself from the ticket machine.

How to book your Italy train tickets online

Another option is to purchase your Italian train tickets online. If you are planning your full Italy itinerary from home before departure, this is the best option to ensure that you have everything sorted out when you get here.

Booking your Italy train tickets online in advance is also necessary if you are traveling by Freccia or Italo because you need to reserve your seat and if you buy them last minute, you risk not finding space and having to buy for a much higher price because all the Economy tickets are sold out.

For example, if you buy your Rome to Milan Freccia ticket an hour before departure, you might have to pay more than 100€ per person, while if you book a week in advance, the price will already be down to less than 60€. The exact same trip booked a month earlier will cost less than 25€.

You can book your Italy train ticket online directly from Trenitalia and Italo websites or, if you wish to compare prices and schedules, from Omio , a very easy portal.

Book your ticket with Omio here.

Rail passes and offers

Trenitalia has some offers for different types of packages and passengers for both their high-speed Freccia trains and also the regional and InterCity ones. Here are the main offers:

• Freccia Family. Kids younger than 15 travel for free and adults with a 50% discount.
• Freccia Senior. Tickets for members over 60 start from 29€ for the 2nd-class seats, 34€ for the Premium seats, and 39€ in the Business class.
• InterCity Family. These offers include 50% off for kids younger than 15 and 20% off for the other family members for the night trains.

You can check out the official website for updates and more offers.

Managing your luggage on and off Italy trains

Italian trains are great if you traveling with luggage because there is space above your head or under your seat for smaller suitcases and in between seats for larger ones.

Freccia and Italo trains also have the space for more luggage at the beginning and the end of each coach. Some regional trains also have spaces devoted to larger suitcases and always some space above your head for smaller and medium-sized bags.

Most popular train routes in Italy

Here, you can find some of the most popular train routes in Italy among tourists and locals.

Popular high-speed train routes in Italy

• Milan to Venice. This is a very popular route because many international flights land in Milan and usually Milan is visited for a day before heading to more famous cities. The ride with the Freccia takes around 3 hours and a half and it’s very convenient because you are still in northern Italy before heading south.
• Milan to Florence. If you decide to skip Venice or to leave it as the last destination before flying back home, in around two hours with Frecciarossa, from Milan you can reach Florence .
• Florence to Bologna. This is a very short ride. It takes, in fact, only half an hour to reach Bologna from Florence by high-speed train . And obviously the same on the way back. Both are very popular routes as both cities are often included in classic Italy itineraries.
• Rome to Florence. The Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary is always one of the most popular in Italy and the Rome to Florence train is a very common one.
• Florence to Venice. The Florence to Venice train is the final leg of the classic Italy itinerary.
• Rome to Trento. This is the non-stop high-speed route you take from Rome to reach Trentino-Alto Adige and the Dolomites .
• Rome to Naples. This short train ride is the most common for those who want to reach Pompeii from Rome because first, you need to get to Napoli Centrale and then change trains.
• Bologna to Venice. If you are willing to make a stop between Florence and Venice, Bologna is one fascinating destination to explore. It takes an hour and a half with the bullet train or 2 hours and 10 minutes with the fast regional train (RV). The route is covered by both Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa and Italo.
• Rome to Bologna. If you are not taking the classic route, this train is handy for a short trip of one day in Bologna .

Popular regional train routes in Italy

• Florence to Siena. The Florence to Siena day trip is one of the most popular day trips from Florence and this is an easy and short train ride.
• Florence to Pisa. Similarly, also the Florence to Pisa day trip is a popular and easy one.
• Florence to Cinque Terre. The Italian Riviera is often included in a classic itinerary and taken as a stop before heading further north. The Florence to Cinque Terre train journey is not direct and involves at least one change.
• Naples to Pompeii. This is one of the most popular train routes because most travelers to Campania stop in Naples mainly to visit Pompeii and unless they are joining a private tour, they need to take the Circumvesuviana train to reach the ruins.

My best tips for smooth train travel in Italy

The train schedules come out around four to five months before and planning ahead is essential especially if you are booking a high-speed train. Whether it’s Italo’s or Trenitalia’s Freccia, you are required to reserve your seat. If you book ahead, you will find more room and more options, making it more convenient if you travel in a group.

Planning ahead your Italian train journey will also make you save quite some money.

READ: Our best tips to plan a perfect trip to Italy

Train travel in Italy with luggage is easy and requires little effort. There are dedicated spaces for suitcases on board most trains but there are also many travelers so I suggest you pack light to be able to keep your luggage always close to you.

Double-check your offer

There are many packages and offers when you buy Italian train tickets, but they all have conditions, especially the extra discounted ones. Regional trips are usually non-refundable and the tickets are not changeable but so are special offers even when booked on high-speed trains.

Get to the station early

Getting to the station early is recommended especially when your departure is from a big station like Roma Termini. In Termini, there are many platforms and some are quite far from the entrance and from the underground metro so you need to have the time to navigate to avoid missing your train.

Check the time between connections

When you book a journey that requires changing trains, try to keep your time between connections between 20 to 30 minutes. This applies especially when your connecting station is a large one but also in case your first train is not entirely on time.

Keep an eye on train strikes in Italy

Train strikes in Italy are actually a thing . They happen more often in winter and rarely in summer. To be updated, you can check this list of strikes in Italy. On the “filtra per settore” menu on the upper left, you can select either “ferroviario” or “generale” because when the strike is general, often the transport sector joins.

In case there is a railway strike, check out which railways are taking part in the protest because often it’s limited to local regional trains and Freccia trains are not involved. However, if the strike is general, most trains won’t be traveling.

Some time slots are guaranteed by law. These are peak hours in the morning and in the afternoon. Those trains, however, sell out quickly in the case of high-speed Freccia and Italo or get very crowded with commuters going to work or going back home in the case of regional trains where you don’t need to book your seat.

Per my experience, even in the guaranteed time slots, not all trains show up, making it even harder to catch or be able to enter one. If there is a large general strike, I suggest you make alternative plans such as hiring a private driver.

Should you or should you not travel by train in Italy?

Pros of train travel in italy, city to city.

Unlike the airports that are out of the city, traveling by train you will arrive very close to the city center and reaching your hotel or the local landmarks will take less time.

Traveling by train you can enjoy the view from the window and in Italy, usually, the view makes for a great part of the trip!

Frequent trains

Between regional, high-speed, InterCity, and local trains, there are a great number of options you can book making it quite easy to adapt to your schedule.

Cost-effective

Traveling by train in Italy is not expensive. Regional trains are very affordable and high-speed trains are much cheaper when booked a few weeks in advance.

Cons of train travel in Italy

Slower travel.

While slow travel might be the dream of many, some might need to get faster to a certain destination so in this case, flying would be your best option.

You might not meet large crowds on high-speed trains because all travelers need to have their seats booked, but regional trains can get very crowded, especially those used by commuters during rush hour.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Italy train guide — how to travel italy by train.

How to travel Italy by train — tips for buying Italian train tickets and advice for navigating Italy by rail.

Transportation

Italy is a joy to travel by train—the views of the countryside are amazing, the rail system is efficient, and booking tickets is easier than ever. Furthermore, Italy has a highly-developed high-speed rail network that quickly connects all major cities and slower local trains connect most of the small towns. It’s simply the best way to travel around Italy. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about Italy trains—from buying tickets to traveling between its great cities.

How To Buy Train Tickets in Italy

Buying Italian train tickets is generally easy—in most cases, you can purchase tickets online and have them sent electronically to your phone/app.

Let’s first take a look at where and how early to buy tickets…

Travel Tip: Most train tickets in Italy are now electronic so having reliable high-speed data for your phone is super helpful. Here are a few articles I’ve written to help you get cheap mobile data in Italy:  Guide To Mobile Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe ,  How To Buy A SIM Card and Mobile Data Plans in Europe , and Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in Italy

Where To Buy Italy Train Tickets

Buying Italian train tickets online is fairly simple and straightforward these days—but there can sometimes be a few quirks.

Note: Trenitalia is the official Italian Railways website. The site is known to have weird translation issues and some people have problems with getting their payments processed. Personally, I’d avoid using this if you’re not Italian. The options below are much more user-friendly for non-Italians.

Omio is a search engine that lets you compare and book trains (and buses and flights) anywhere in Europe. It lets you easily book tickets with your credit card at essentially the same prices as the Trenitalia website. Additionally, Omio searches routes for multiple rail services across Europe so it’s great for international trips (since it can easily combine rail journeys of multiple countries).

TrainLine is a website that searches multiple rail services across Europe so it’s great for international trips (since it can easily combine rail journeys of multiple countries). It’s also good for single-country travel. Plus, it’s designed for English-speaking travelers so it’s super user-friendly.

ItaliaRail.com

ItaliaRail is a worldwide distributor of Italian train tickets so their site is also simple to use for English speakers. You can use a credit card to pay in most currencies so anyone in the world use to able to buy tickets through the site. As an added bonus, the tickets are electronic so they can be sent straight to your phone (or can be printed at home if you prefer).

Italotreno.it

Italotreno is a private rail company that runs modern high-speed trains between most major cities—these trains only run between major cities. Be sure to check them out as there are some deals to be found. Luckily, when you search with Omio you’ll also get Italotreno trains in the results so I prefer searching there since you can compare all the rail companies.

At The Station

Of course, you can buy any Italian train ticket from any train station—either from a ticket window or an automated machine. You can purchase tickets in advance from train stations as well.

How To Collect Your Train Tickets

Tickets purchased online can be collected in a few different ways. Sometimes you’re given multiple methods and sometimes you’re only given one option:

• Electronic Tickets: Tickets are sent to your phone or sometimes an App. Simply show your phone to the conductor on the train when he checks the tickets.
• Print-At-Home Tickets: Print them and show them to the conductor on the train when he checks the tickets. You can often simply save the PDF to your phone/tablet and the conductor can scan it from there.
• Pick Up At the Station: Use your credit card or a booking number to print your tickets at the train station.
• Reference Number (PNR): You’re sent a booking reference number (PRN) and you show it to the conductor on the train when he checks tickets.

Do I Need To Buy Italian Train Tickets In Advance?

Long-Distance/High-Speed Trains: Yes – book early. Booking ahead online will get you the cheapest tickets and prices will continue to rise as the departure date approaches. For example, I just did a search for a day-of ticket for Rome-Milan and it was €95 but tickets bought two months in advance are €32—that’s a pretty big difference.

• High-Speed Trains: Frecciarossa (180mph), Frecciargento (160 mph), Frecciabianca (155mph), Italo (180 mph), InterCity (125mph).

Note: Trains between major cities will almost always be high-speed trains (Rome-Milan, Rome-Venice, Rome-Florence, Venice-Milan, etc). Also, most train tickets are available for purchase between three to six months in advance.

Regional Trains: Price-wise, there is no need to book early. Regional trains are priced by distance traveled so there is no discount for booking early. Simply show up at the station and buy your tickets at the window or automated kiosk.

Of course, you can still buy regional train tickets online so they’re ready to go on your phone and you can skip any lines at the ticket machines.

• Slow Trains: InterRegionale (IR), Regionale (R), and Diretto (D)

High-Speed Vs. InterCity/Regional Trains: High-speed trains are faster (obviously) and nicer/more comfortable than InterCity/Regional trains. They’re also more expensive but we usually think the time savings are worth the cost. But if you’re on a budget then there is no shame in taking a cheaper train.

International Train Tickets

International train tickets (i.e. tickets between Italy and another country) can sometimes cause a few issues. Let’s take a look at a few:

• Otherwise, you can book two separate journeys (one for Country A and another for Country B) but that’s kind of a hassle.
• Buy Ticket From Departure Country’s Site: Always purchase your tickets from the country in which your train departs. This is because you can often only pick up your ticket from a station in the country where the trip originates. For example, for a journey from Nice, France to Milan, Italy you’ll want to buy your ticket from the French rail network but if you’re going from Milan to Nice then you’ll want to buy the ticket from an Italian site. NOTE: This isn’t an issue when you book through a third-party booking website.

How To Use Your Italy Train Tickets

On most high-speed trains in Italy, your ticket is only good for the time on the ticket. You’ll also be given an assigned seat. You don’t need a validate your ticket because your seat is reserved (but they might check your ID). NOTE: Your ticket will show the car and seat number so make sure you’re in the right car (the trains are clearly marked).

On regional trains , you might have a physical ticket. Make sure to validate (i.e. stamp) your ticket in the validation boxes on the platform before you get on the train. They’re sometimes hard to see so watch what the locals are doing. If you forget to validate, seek out the conductor immediately and have him stamp it — if you wait until he comes around you might be given a fine.

Regional trains won’t have seat reservations so just sit anywhere.

Once you’re on the train the conductor will eventually walk through the aisles to check tickets.

How To Make Rail Pass Reservations

Most high-speed trains require you to make a reservation when using a Eurail pass — the reservation costs around €10/seat. You must make the reservation before you get on the train. There are a few ways to make reservations:

• Online: ItaliaRail.com lets you book your reservation online through their platform. Simply look for a button that says something like “I Have A Railpass” and follow the prompts.
• At The Train Station: You can simply go to the train station and book your reservation from the customer service desk or self-service kiosks. You can book it weeks in advance or you can do it the day you depart. We suggest using the kiosks because the ticket window can take forever.

More Tips For Riding Italian Trains

• Check The Departures Board: You’ll find your train platform via the departure board at the train station. Don’t worry if you don’t see your train because they often only display trains departing within the next 10-20 minutes.
• Cheap Tickets Are Non-Refundable: One downside to cheap tickets is that they’re non-refundable and they can’t be changed.
• Pack A Picnic: You’re allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on trains. It’s great for those long train rides.
• Luggage: There aren’t any weight limits on luggage and you can bring as much as you want (well, as much as you can carry). Simply bring it on and store it above your head, behind your seat, or in the luggage racks in each car.
• Get To The Train Station Early: Train stations are usually fairly easy to navigate but they can be a little confusing—especially larger stations. There isn’t any security that you have to go through but it doesn’t hurt to arrive about 20 minutes early.
• Know Train Station Names: Most large cities have multiple train stations so this often creates confusion. Double-check to make sure you have the right station — especially when booking your ticket.
• Learn Italian City Names: Italian cities will often be called by their Italian name — for example, Roma (Rome), Firenze (Florence), Napoli (Naples), Milano (Milan), etc.
• First Class vs Second Class Tickets: First Class tickets normally cost 1.5x the second class rate. Second Class is perfectly comfortable but First Class seats are a bit bigger. There isn’t much more of a difference.
• Use A Credit Card With Chip: Automated ticket kiosks require a card with a chip so make sure you know your PIN code.
• Get High-Speed Mobile Data: Train tickets are electronic so you’ll want data on your phone. Check out my guide to the best prepaid eSIM plans for Italy to get a cheap data plan.

Learn More About Traveling In Italy

Here are a few articles I’ve written about traveling around Italy:

• Rome Travel Guide: Tips For Visiting Rome
• Florence Travel Guide: Tips For Visiting Florence
• Venice Travel Guide: Tips For Visiting Venice
• Recent Posts

• Fashion Advice: How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe - February 20, 2024
• How To Purchase Train Tickets for Europe | Strategies For Buying European Train Tickets - February 16, 2024
• Complete Guide To Train Travel In Europe | How To Travel Europe By Train - February 15, 2024

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Taking the Train in Italy

How to Travel on Italian Trains

Train travel in Italy is a convenient, inexpensive way to see much of the country, especially its major cities and towns. The nationwide rail system was begun in the 1800s, and expanded greatly under the Fascist regime of Mussolini, who famously, "made the trains run on time." Bombardment during WWII devastated the rail lines but reconstruction occurred under the post-war Marshall Plan. The first high-speed trains debuted in the 1970s and today, Italy continues to, little-by-little, at least, modernize and expand its rail system.

Traveling by train is usually the best option for visiting large and medium-sized cities, where driving is nerve-wracking and parking is scarce and expensive. In major cities, the train station is usually in the city center or right on the perimeter. In medium and smaller cities, especially those at higher elevation (like Siena or Orvieto, for example), the station is at a lower elevation and is connected to the center via bus, funicular or a short walk or taxi ride.

It's worth noting that if you want to see the Italian countryside and tour its more remote hilltowns, trains are not the most ideal option, as many towns don't have nearby stations. And because train tracks often have embankments on both sides, you don't always have an idyllic countryside view out your window.  

Types of Trains in Italy

With exceptions as noted, all trains are part of the national rail line, Trenitalia .

Frecce fast trains Frecce are Italy's fast trains that run only between major cities. Seat reservations on Frecce trains are mandatory and usually included in the ticket price. Tickets for the Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca high-speed lines (Frecciarossa is the fastest) are available on the Trenitalia website – you'll notice right away when searching that the fast trains are significantly more expensive and, well, faster than other Trenitalia trains. Different travel classes are available, but even the basic Freccia service is clean and comfortable.

Intercity and Intercity Plus trains

Intercity trains are relatively fast trains that run the length of Italy, stopping at cities and larger towns. First and second class service is available. First class coaches offer slightly better seats and are generally less crowded. They very often have cleaner bathrooms as well. Seat reservations are compulsory on the Intercity Plus trains, and the fee is included in the ticket price. Seat reservations can be made for most Intercity trains, too.

Regionale (Regional Trains) These are the local trains, often running around work and school schedules. They are cheap and usually reliable, but seats can be hard to find on major routes. Many regional trains have only second class seats, but if available, consider buying a first class ticket. It's less likely to be full especially during commute times and doesn't cost much more. We have to be honest – Regionale trains, while cheap and frequent, can range from clean and comfortable (with air-conditioning in hot weather) to dirty and even smelly – with bathrooms that you may not want to set foot in. This is by no means always the case, but know that Regionale trains are a bit of a roll of the dice.

Italo , a private rail company, runs fast trains on routes between several major cities. In recent years, it has taken a bite out of Trenitalia's business, particularly where it competes with the Freccia trains. Italo has an extremely modern fleet of clean, comfortable trains, with service classes ranging from Smart (standard) to Club Executive (VIP class).

Some small private rail companies serve towns in one area such as Ente Autonomo Volturno that has routes from Naples to places like the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii or the  Ferrovie del Sud Est  that serves southern Puglia.

Finding your destination on the train schedules

Train schedules are displayed in train stations, for both departing ( partenze ) and arriving ( arrivi ). Most train stations have either a large board or small televisions listing trains that will arrive or depart soon and which track they use. Even if your train is listed on the screen, you may have to wait a while before you see the track listed and making your way to the correct platform.

Buying an Italian Train Ticket

There are a number of ways to buy a train ticket in Italy or before you go:

• Search schedules and buy train tickets online and see train schedules at  Trenitalia  or  Italo . This is our preferred method of buying tickets, which you can either print or save on your smartphone to show to the conductor. Both companies have convenient apps for Android or Apple devices, which allow you to search, purchase tickets and track your train's progress in real time. 
• Go to a ticket window at the station equipped with the time and destination of the train you want to take, the number of tickets you need, and ticket class ( primo or secondo ).
• Use a ticket machine if the station has them. These are pretty easy to use, and you can avoid long lines at the ticket window but you may need to pay in cash.

Note: Unless you're really doing things at the last minute, we strongly recommend buying your tickets online.

For travel on regional trains, note that a train ticket buys you transportation on a train, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll get a seat on that train. If you find that your train is crowded and you can't find a seat in second class, you may try to find a conductor and ask if your ticket can be upgraded to first class.

Train Travel FAQ: Should I Buy a Rail Pass for Train Travel in Italy?

Boarding your Train

Once you have a ticket, you can head out to your train. In Italian, the tracks are called binari (track numbers are listed under bin on the departure board). In smaller stations where the trains go through the station you'll have to go underground using the sottopassagio, or underpassage, to get to a track that isn't binario uno or track number one. In larger stations like Milano Centrale, where the trains pull into the station rather than passing through, you'll see the trains head-on, with signs on each track indicating the next expected train and its departure time.

If you have a printed regional train ticket or ticket for one of the small private lines (or any ticket without a specific train number, date, and time), just before you board your train, find the green and white machine (or in some cases the old-style yellow machines) and insert the end of your ticket. This prints the time and date of the first use of your ticket, and makes it valid for the journey. There are stiff fines for not validating your ticket. Validation applies to regional train tickets or any ticket that does not have a specific date, time, and seat number on it. 

Note that if you have an e-ticket or PDF, or a printed ticket with a QR code on it, there is no need to validate it – just show it to the conductor when he or she passes on the train.

If you don't have an assigned seat, just board one of the train cars for your class of travel. Usually, there are racks above the seats for luggage, or dedicated shelves near the ends of each coach for your larger baggage. On some trains, large pieces of luggage can fit between two rows of back-to-back seats. Note that you will not find porters in the station or waiting by the track to help you with your luggage, you will need to get your luggage onto the train yourself.

It's customary to greet fellow passengers when you sit down. A simple buongiorno will do nicely. If you want to know if a seat is vacant, simply say Occupato? or E libero?

At Your Destination

Train stations are bustling places, especially in large cities. Be careful about your baggage and wallet. Don't let anyone offer to help you with your luggage once you are off the train or offer you transportation. If you're looking for a taxi, head outside the station to the taxi stand or bus stops. In cities with subway systems (metro), there is usually a metro station inside the train station.

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• Can I Buy Train Tickets Online?
• How Do I Validate My Train Ticket?
• When Should I Buy My Train Tickets?

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How to travel by train in Italy

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Traveling by train in Italy is a fantastic way to get around this beautiful country. Services are efficient and fast, and tickets are affordable. When traveling between major cities, the train will take you straight to the heart of the action.

Train travel in Italy also means avoiding any parking issues as well as traffic jams.  We love to travel by standard or high speed train in Italy, but navigating your way around the system can be tricky for beginners.

This guide will take you through all you need to know about buying Italy train tickets, including the best places to purchase them. We also cover making reservations and what you should consider before booking your travel.  

PRO TIP: We use Omio to book train tickets in Italy

Article contents

1. Planning your travel

When planning your Italian itinerary, it’s good to know that it’s worth booking your train travel in Italy in advance. This can save you time as well as money. Big savings can be made by booking in advance. Here is all you need to know about Italian train companies, main routes and stations, types of service and ticket, and how to book.

Italy train services

There are several different types of train routes and train services in Italy. Understanding the structure of the Italian train system can save you costly mistakes and wasted time. Generally, there are high speed intercity rail services and regional trains.

High speed trains in Italy

High speed services operate between the major cities like Rome , Florence , Venice , Naples, Milan and Turin and can get you to your destination very quickly. Reaching speeds of up to 300 kilometers an hour they are convenient, fast and the best way to travel between cities. Your journey on a high speed train in Italy means getting to your destination more quickly, with less stops en-route but this all comes at a higher price.  

Italian regional trains

With more stops and a slower pace, regional trains in Italy are also much cheaper. These services connect with smaller cities and towns and are useful if you want to discover Italy’s hidden corners . Most visitors to Italy will experience the high speed trains but if you want to go to the Cinque Terre or travel by train from Naples to Sorrento you will need to travel on the regional rail network. The most important thing to know is that if you purchase a physical ticket at the station for these journeys you MUST validate it at the machine on the departures concourse before boarding or risk a large fine.

Italian train companies and booking services

Trenitalia is owned and operated by the Italian government and is responsible for more trains in Italy than any other company. If you plan to take a high speed train in Italy, it may well belong to Trenitalia. Red Arrow ( Frecciarossa) trains are the fastest and all passengers benefit from amenities like charging sockets, free WiFi, air conditioning and a food carriage. 

Prices are determined by 2 factors – the class of travel class and the flexibility of the ticket. The cheapest Italy train tickets are sold in advance and allow no changes or refunds. These are known as Super Economy tickets. Booking directly with Trenitalia is possible, but it’s not always the simplest way due to translation issues and the fact that international credit cards may not always be accepted.

Italo is a privately owned Italian train operator, specializing in intercity, high speed trains. The service and prices are very similar to those offered by Trenitalia. Which company to travel with thus tends to depend on availability and when you want to travel. Again, passengers can book with Italo directly, but this isn’t the easiest way due to language barriers and website usability.

Omio runs a user-friendly site and smartphone app for booking train travel in Italy. They work with Italo, Trenitalia and regional railway operators – as well as airlines and bus companies across Italy and Europe. Using their app or site allows you to compare options simply and easily.  Users of Omio can easily source the quickest, cheapest and best ways to travel between Italian and European cities, villages and towns. This applies whether you wish to fly or take a bus or train and it is why we recommend Omio. Once you have installed the app, you can book Italy train tickets in advance. As the details will then be stored, it’s a lot simpler to make changes – or even to purchase tickets for trips at the last minute.

Covid Safety

At the time of writing, Italian trains are running normally. 

If you have any of the typical symptoms of acute respiratory infections such as a high temperature, a new persistent cough, loss of your sense of smell, or general cold symptoms, do not board a train.   You can find more information about the latest restrictions and details of any vaccination requirements on the Italian Tourism Board website .

Know the main train routes and stations

Many visitors tend to follow a classic route across Italy, beginning in Rome before traveling on to Florence or Naples . They may then travel on to other destinations. Other favorite cities include Milan and Venice. Here are the major Italian train routes to help you plan your journey.

Major Trenitalia routes

• Venice – Padua – Bologna – Florence – Rome – Naples – Salerno
• Turin – Milan – Bologna – Florence – Rome – Naples – Salerno
• Milan – Brescia – Verona – Vincenza – Padua – Venice

Major Italo routes

• Turin – Milan – Reggio Emilia – Bologna – Florence – Rome – Naples – Salerno
• Turin – Milan – Reggio Emilia – Bologna – Rimini – Pesaro – Ancona
• Venice – Padua – Bologna – Florence – Rome – Naples – Salerno
• Verona – Bologna – Florence – Rome – Naples

The following information is a guide to the main routes, including average travel times and costs. Please note that prices, timings and frequency are approximate, and will often vary depending on the day of the week and time of day. Each route can be traveled in either direction. Prices are stated in Euros. As you can see, these are far lower when tickets are purchased in advance.

Rome to Naples by train

• Fastest time: 1 hour 02 minutes
• Trains per day: 95+
• Advance price: from €10 | On the day price: from €14
• Click to research schedules and prices

Rome to Venice by train

• Fastest time: 3 hours 26 minutes
• Trains per day: 50+
• Advance price: from €21 | On the day price: from €50

Rome to Florence by train

• Fastest time: 1 hour 22 minutes
• Advance price: from €10 | On the day price: from €23

Milan to Venice by train

• Fastest time: 2 hours 12 minutes
• Trains per day: 25+
• Advance price: from €15 | On the day price: from €21

Florence to Venice by train

• Fastest time: 2 hours 01 minutes
• Advance price: from €10 | On the day price: from €22

There are also some local and regional train routes that are very popular with visitors from overseas. These include trains from Florence to the Cinque Terre or Pisa, and routes from Rome to Salerno or Sorrento on the Amalfi Coast.

Rome – Naples – Sorrento

• Roma Termini to Naples around 1 hour and 10 minutes > check timetable and prices
• Change trains in Naples for the local Circumvesuviana or Campania express services (must purchase tickets at Napoli Centrale) or organize a private transfer to Sorrento (recommended)

Rome – [Naples] – Salerno (south Amalfi Coast)

• Roma Termini to Salerno from 1 hour and 30 minutes > check timetables and prices
• Note – Some direct services but many add a change in Naples

Florence – Pisa

• The fastest Florence to Pisa takes around 1 hour, usually 1 hour and 30 minutes > check timetables and prices
• Average 4 trains per hour 

Florence – Pisa – Cinque Terre (La Spezia Centrale)

• Florence Campo di Marte to La Spezia about 1 hour and 40 minutes > check timetables and prices
• Change at La Spezia for local routes to Cinque Terre villages

Major Italian train stations  

Your Italian train journey is highly likely to begin or end at one of the country’s major train stations. If you are intending to purchase tickets on an Italian booking site – or from a ticket machine at the station – you must be familiar with the Italian names.

• Rome Termini / Roma Stazione Termini: Via Giovanni Giolitti, 40, 00185 Rome
• Left luggage open: 08:00 – 20:00
• Station info
• Florence S M Novella / Firenze Santa Maria Novella / Firenze SMN: Piazza della Stazione, 50123 Firenze
• Left luggage open: 09:30 – 18:00
• Naples Central / Napoli Centrale: Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 80142 Napoli
• Left luggage open: 07:00 – 23:00
• Venice Santa Lucia / Venezia Santa Lucia
• Left luggage open: 09:00 – 20:00
• Milan Central / Milano Centrale: Piazza Duca d’Aosta, 1, 20124 Milano

TIP: For other cities try searching for “City name” plus “Centrale” or “Stazione” to find the main train station.

When booking tickets for trains in Italy, check the booking conditions carefully. Does the ticket type allow for any changes or cancellations? Often the cheapest fares are completely inflexible and may make a lot of stops along the way. So compare departure and arrival times and also station. Example – we’ve been caught out expecting to arrive at the main station in Florence (Santa Maria Novella) and instead arriving at Campo di Marta where there are limited taxi services. 

Ticket availability  

While we advise booking in advance to secure the cheapest fares on high speed services, you may discover that you cannot find what you want when searching for high speed trains. This is because bookings normally open 120 days – just under 4 months – in advance of travel.   There are two major European train timetable changes per year, occurring on the second Saturdays in June and December. After this happens you may only be able to book 30 days in advance.   

Ticket classes  

There is not a huge difference between first and second class train travel in Italy. Most visitors are happy to travel in second class. Holders of first class tickets can expect a little extra space and leg room, as well as a light snack and a newspaper.    The following guide gives a little more information on the available ticket classes in Italy.

Trenitalia – high speed services

• Second Class / Standard: Standard: WiFi, air-conditioning, power sockets, tables, food service and cafe bar, entertainment portal
• First  Class / Premium: As Standard PLUS large leather seats,  newspapers and welcome drink 
• Business Class: As First PLUS extra leg and elbow room and table service
• Executive Class:   As Prima PLUS 10-seat carriages, station club lounge access, gourmet meals and 6-seat meeting room access
• Second Class / Smart:   WiFi, air-conditioning, power sockets, leather seats, snack area and table service
• First Class / Comfort: as Smart but with extra space / larger seats
• Prima: A s Comfort PLUS lounge access, fast track, less seats per carriage, personal screen, in-seat catering and newspapers
• Club Executive :  A s Prima PLUS dedicated catering and entry to Club lounges at major stations 

Trenitalia – regional and slower intercity services

• Standard: cafe bar, tables and power sockets
• Premium: as standard plus seat reservations and more space

How to book Italy train tickets online

The simplest way to compare train times and ticket prices is to use Omio . Their site and app display both Italo and Trenitalia options plus regional train services so you can pick the best one for your travel plans. You can also refine your searches according to departure time, journey duration and price.  

  Intercity Trains

Advance booking is recommended. Huge savings of up to 50% are available when buying Italian train tickets in advance. If you do this, though, you must be certain about the times and dates of travel and it’s wise to work on the assumption that this kind of ticket is completely non-refundable and non-changeable. 

On the majority of intercity routes, tickets can be bought on the actual day of travel. However, this does not guarantee seat availability. During periods of peak demand, we recommend purchasing your Italy train tickets in advance to secure seats. The busiest times are in the mornings between 06:00 and 10:00, and between 15:00 and 19:00 in the afternoon on weekdays. The Christmas, Easter and summer holiday period (mid August) are among the most popular times to travel.

Regional trains  

It is not often necessary to book in advance for regional or local services – unless you plan to travel during the busiest holiday periods mentioned above.

2. At the station  

Here are some general guidelines regarding what to do when catching trains in Italy. In general train stations are busy places with lots of services including places to buy food, drinks and reading materials. 

• Arrive about 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time
• Buy a ticket if you didn’t pre book one. This can be done via a machine or in person
• If traveling on a regional train, you need to validate your ticket before boarding or you risk a large fine
• Check the departure platform (called partenze in Italian ). Often the display will only show the final destination, so do check the train number on your ticket to make sure
• There is no security, just a ticket check, at Italian rail stations
• Be aware that trains will only stop for a couple of minutes for a changeover 
• Check the location of your carriage so you are in place and can board on time – the train will not wait
• Store your luggage overhead or in the luggage compartments at the end of each carriage.

3. On board

• Italian trains tend to have small luggage racks, making large cases a bit of a burden when traveling by rail
• You can buy coffee, drinks and snacks on intercity services
• Expect free WiFi, a power socket and a tray table, even in second class
• Some seat configurations have a table
• Basic bathroom facilities are available on board

4. Arriving at your destination

When you arrive at your destination be aware that if the train is continuing on to another stop there may be only a few minutes available to disembark. 

• Prepare your belongings and be ready to disembark well before (at least 5 minutes) your scheduled arrival 
• There are taxi ranks at all the major Italian train stations
• Left luggage facilities are also available

5. Italy train travel FAQs

• How far in advance should I book my tickets?

Tickets may be released anywhere between 3 to 6 months before travel. As mentioned earlier, this time may be reduced to 30 days after the major European timetable changes in June and December. It also depends on the operator. Thus there is no set schedule. We recommend booking 1 or 2 weeks before travel for any intercity high speed train in Italy if you know the dates and times you wish to travel

• Do I need to print my tickets?

Intercity train tickets do not require printing, as you will simply be asked to show your booking reference. If you have the Omio app , you can use this, or alternatively, show an email booking confirmation. If you have purchased tickets for regional trains online and printed a copy, you do not need to validate these. They can be used for the selected train – or any that departs within the following 4 hours.

• Should I buy an Italy rail pass?

We don’t think that rail passes for Italy are cost effective or very helpful. Though you may make a saving upfront, the €10 fee for each seat reservation cancels this out. A Eurail pass , however, can be useful when you will be visiting other parts of Europe – especially if you are eligible for the under 26 discount.

• Are there discounts for seniors and children?

Children under 4 may travel free when sitting on your lap. If you want a seat for them, you can pay 50% of the base fare. On Trenitalia trains, children aged between 4 and 15 (or 12 on regional trains) also pay 50%. On Italo routes, infants under 3 years travel free when sitting on your lap. Both Trenitalia and Italo have family offers, where children traveling with paying adults go free. These offers are usually applied automatically when booking. With Italo, the adults have to buy a flex ticket in Smart class. The Bimbi Gratis offer from Trenitalia applies to families comprising 2 to 5 people. Under 15s travel for free when the older other members of the group pay the base fare. 

Seniors can buy a Silver Card ( Carta d’Argento ) from Trenitalia. It costs 30 euros for a year and is available for those aged between 60 and 75. For those over 75, it is free. With the card, seniors can save 15% on most journeys. Italo offers seniors a 40% discount on the usual Smart class flex fare. 

The Green Card (Carta Verde) is the discount card dedicated to young people aged between 12 and within 26 years of age . It has an annual cost of 40 euros and allows 10% discounts on the prices of the Base ticket in 1st and 2nd class on all national trains, on the Business, Premium and Standard service levels and on sleeping and couchette cars.

• How much luggage can I take on trains in Italy?

Try to avoid taking large pieces of luggage on trains in Italy. There is no space for large suitcases and things could get very awkward on a busy service. You can easily fit carry on luggage above and between the seats. The largest luggage we recommend that you take is a medium sized suitcase. You can read more about our recommended luggage for travel in Italy in this article .

• When is the best time to travel by train for cheaper train tickets?

Off peak periods are in the middle of any weekday – from late morning to early afternoon. Weekends can be very busy because ticket prices are cheaper.

• Can I choose my seat?

On regional trains, you cannot pre-book a seat, so simply take one that is available.   On faster intercity routes booked via Omio you can specify a preference for an aisle or window seat. If you book directly with Italo or Trenitalia, you can choose your seat. Seats are allocated at the time of booking. So if you want to sit together, make sure you book together via one transaction. It can be quite common to find someone sat in your allocated seat. A simple “Scusa” should indicate this to whoever is sitting there. 

• How many tickets can I book?

This does vary by operator and route. Omio will typically let you book up to 9 passengers, for example. A larger number is considered a group, and specialist departments deal with group bookings. This is standard for all types of travel, and across the world. 

• What happens if there is a train strike? 

In the event of a strike affecting trains in Italy, the first thing to know is that strikes are always planned in advance, So there’s no need to worry about one taking you by surprise. Also, Trenitalia guarantees minimum services, even on strike days. You can find out more about how Italian train trikes could affect you here .   

• Are there night trains in Italy?

If you are traveling a long way – such as between Venice and Naples or Milan and Sicily – you may consider using a sleeper train. As you travel overnight, this saves the cost of accommodations. There are various kinds of seats, couchettes and sleepers on Italian overnight trains. We recommend booking a sleeper or couchette, as you will sleep within a compartment with a safety lock and can also lie flat. 

• Where can I find a train map of Italy? 

We like to use this Italy train map that shows high speed and regional train routes

6. When is Italy train travel not the best option?  

Sometimes train travel in Italy is simply not the best option available. This particularly applies when you want to get off the beaten path, exploring those hidden corners that are not part of the main tourist trail. Regional trains can be very slow and may not reach the places you want to go. A great example of this is in Puglia where the services are extremely limited. 

This might also apply when you have limited time. If you want to see a lot in a short space of time, booking a rental car may be a better option. A hire car may also be more cost effective when there are more passengers and you have a lot of people and luggage to transport. In this case, you might consider hiring a driver for a private tour of Italy .  

If you want to travel long distances, then flying can be a much better option. It is far quicker, and might even be cheaper too. When you’re planning to visit the Italian islands of Sicily or Sardinia, booking a flight also makes more sense.   

Summary – Where will you travel by train to in Italy?  

We hope this guide has answered all your questions about how to travel by train in Italy. Trains in Italy provide travelers with a great way to see this wonderful country, especially when you are visiting more than one city. If you have any further questions about traveling by train in Italy, please join our FREE Italy Travel Planning community where thousands of Italy-loving travelers help others plan their trips.

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The ultimate guide to train travel in Italy 

Master the Italian rails, book tickets with ease, and embark on thrilling adventures with this guide about train travel in Italy

• 1 This guide to train travel in Italy will help you navigate the Italian railway system and feel comfortable booking train tickets for your next sightseeing adventure.
• 2 Train types in Italy
• 3 Which train company shall I choose?
• 4 Shall I purchase train tickets in advance?
• 5 Is it better to buy train tickets at the station or online?
• 6 Getting the names of the Italian train stations right
• 7 What shall I do when I am at the train station?
• 8 The importance of validating your train tickets
• 9 What do I do if someone takes my seat on the train?
• 10 Where do I find the conductor in case I need help?
• 11 What if I miss my train?
• 12 How do I change the name on a train ticket?
• 13 Do train stations in Italy have luggage storage facilities?
• 14 How to avoid scams at train stations in Italy
• 15 What to do when there’s a train strike in Italy
• 16.1 Pssst… Pin this article for future reference and get in touch if you have any questions about train travel in Itay!

This guide to train travel in Italy will help you navigate the Italian railway system and feel comfortable booking train tickets for your next sightseeing adventure.

Train travel is a great way to see Italy’s incredibly diverse landscape, which ranges from plains and rolling hills covered in vineyards to stunning coastlines and mountains.

It’s fairly easy to travel across Italy by train, but I know it can seem a little overwhelming at first with all the different options and train types.

And since many of you have a lot of questions about train bookings in Italy, I thought I’d put together a guide that hopefully will help. So, let’s start…

Train types in Italy

First thing first, there are three main types of trains in Italy:

High-speed trains are the fastest trains that allow you to travel to Italy’s major cities quickly and comfortably. Their services include assigned seats, ample luggage storage, and wifi, and you can book tickets in advance online. Italo trains and the Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains provided by Trenitalia fall into this category.

Intercity trains connect major cities on long distances, they’re cheaper but a bit slower. They usually have air conditioning and you get an assigned seat in 1st or 2nd class.

Regional trains are what you need if you’re planning to explore smaller towns and villages. In comparison to fast trains, they’re cheap (and their prices tend to be fixed), but they’re also much slower since they have many stops. Because the seats are first-come, first-served, you’re not guaranteed one, especially during peak travel times. Also, there’s rarely air conditioning or first class. They are identified by RV (Regionale Veloce, a bit faster) and R (Regionale, the slowest). 

Which train company shall I choose?

There are two train companies operating in Italy: Trenitalia  and Italo .

The main difference between the two is that Italo only offers fast trains connecting major cities (like Milan, Rome, Venice, Turin, Florence, Naples), while Trenitalia offers high-speed, intercity, and regional trains. So, if you need to get to small towns and villages, you’ll need to use Trenitalia.

When it comes to high-speed trains, both Italo and Trenitalia offer free wifi and power outlets, as well as a seating option for four people facing each other, which is great for family trips or groups of friends.

Trenitalia’s high-speed fleet consists of Frecciarossa (the fastest train), Frecciargento , and Frecciabianca trains. Tickets come in four different classes – Standard , Premium , Business,   Executive (more info here ). There are also three main types of fares: Super Economy (no changes, nor refunds allowed), Economy (you can change it by paying the price difference, no refunds), and Base (you can change it by paying the price difference; partial refund allowed). 

Italo offers four different service levels: Smart (the cheapest), Comfort , Prima , and Club Executive (further info here ). You can choose between Low Cost (no changes nor refunds allowed), Economy (changes and refunds allowed for a fee), and Flex (changes are free, while refunds come with a fee).

Italo is my go-to when visiting big cities because it tends to be cheaper and on time. In general, I guess the choice will mostly depend on where you’re going and the time schedule available. Standard class is good and comfortable with both train companies, and I usually choose the cheapest ticket with some flexibility (for example, the Standard Base with Trenitalia). 

Shall I purchase train tickets in advance?

I get asked this a lot, and my answer is always yes! Why wait if you’ve got it all planned out? Booking train tickets in advance is a wise move especially if you are traveling to popular places or during peak season.

Also, when you buy your train tickets in advance, you don’t just save time during your trip, you’ll also get some great deals. You can always opt for flex fares if you need to change plans for whatever reason.

To clarify, only high-speed trains to big cities should be booked in advance (like Milan to Rome, Venice to Florence, etc.). Regional trains, on the other hand, usually have fixed prices, so buying them ahead isn’t necessary or advantageous. In fact, buying regional train tickets in advance can be a problem since they are usually non-refundable and non-changeable.

Is it better to buy train tickets at the station or online?

Personally, I buy all my train tickets online, either on the websites or through the official apps, because it’s just so easy and convenient.  

Both the Trenitalia and Italo sites have a section in English; the option to change the language is at the top of the homepage, on the right-hand side. Just remember to type the city name in Italian (eg Venezia, not Venice).

Tickets purchased online don’t need to be validated or printed. You just have to show your phone to the conductor when you’re asked to do so.

Tip: don’t register when buying your train tickets online. Registering is only for Italians and you don’t need an account to buy a ticket. So don’t try to enter your details, you might end up stuck on that registration page forever!  

Alternatively, you can get tickets right at the train station. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter or using the touch screen kiosks, where you’ll generally find uniformed staff helping you out .

Getting the names of the Italian train stations right

Like airports, Italian train stations have names. Additionally, major cities like Rome, Milan, or Venice have multiple train stations, so you need to know which one you need when you book your train tickets.

These are the names of the main stations in big Italian cities:

• Rome: Roma Termini
• Venice: Venezia Santa Lucia
• Milan: Milano Centrale
• Florence: Firenze Santa Maria Novella
• Turin: Torino Porta Nuova
• Naples: Napoli Centrale
• Cinque Terre: use La Spezia Centrale , it’s the main transportation hub in the area

What shall I do when I am at the train station?

Upon arriving at the train station, look for the big electronic board with all the Partenze (Departures).

For each train that’s leaving, you’ll see the train number, the final destination, and the binario (the platform number). Say you’re traveling between Milan and Florence on Italo train 9947: the board will say “Napoli” next to the train number since that’s its final destination.

Also, the platform number usually appears only a few minutes before departure time, so if you get there early and don’t see it on the board, don’t panic.

In big stations like Roma Termini and Milano Centrale, you’ll have to go through airport-style security gates to get to the platforms – there are no scanners, just controllers who check your tickets.

The importance of validating your train tickets 

When you travel on a regional train, make sure you validate your paper ticket before boarding. There are small machines (usually green or yellow) on the way to the platforms where you can put the ticket so it’s stamped with the date and time. You’ll get fined if you don’t validate your ticket!

You don’t need to validate regional tickets that you’ve bought online and printed at home, nor intercity or high-speed tickets as these are valid only for that specific date and train.

What do I do if someone takes my seat on the train? 

First of all, remember that your seats are allocated on high-speed and intercity trains only while on regional trains, seating is first-come, first-served. However, it does happen sometimes that someone else is already sitting in your reserved seat, but most of the time you just show your ticket to prove that it’s your seat and they’ll apologize right away and leave.

In the unfortunate event that they refuse to move, talk to the conductor. Don’t forget that sometimes there’s a language barrier, and what seems rude may just be a result of not understanding each other .

Where do I find the conductor in case I need help?

The conductor is usually on the platform when you get on the train. Once the train starts moving, you can either wait for the conductor to come check your tickets or go to the first coach.

What if I miss my train?

This depends on what train it is and what ticket you have.

Regional trains give you a 4-hour window from validation. If it’s a high-speed train, you’ll have to buy a new ticket unless you booked a flexible fare that lets you change it (it’s more expensive, but it’s totally worth it for peace of mind!).

How do I change the name on a train ticket?

It’s not necessary to add the names of everyone on your train ticket, just the person booking it. And even if you are asked to add every passengers’ name, from my experience the conductor never checks them.

Do train stations in Italy have luggage storage facilities?

Yep, all major train stations in Italy have luggage storage facilities. Here are the main ones:

• Rome: KiPoint Roma Termini
• Milan: KiPoint Milano Centrale
• Venice: KiPoint Venezia Santa Lucia
• Florence: KiPoint Firenze Santa Maria Novella
• Naples: KiPoint Napoli Centrale
• Turin: KiPoint Torino Porta Nuova
• La Spezia: Left Luggage La Spezia Centrale

How to avoid scams at train stations in Italy

You’ve got to be cautious walking through a train station in Italy, just like you would anywhere else. Let’s face it, a foreigner carrying luggage and looking a little disoriented is a prime target for a scam, right? Play it cool, look confident, and learn some basic Italian – it will help a lot!

Fake taxi drivers are one of the most common scams. You’ll see people approaching you as soon as you exit the station and asking if you need a taxi. I suggest you stay away from them and get in the official taxi line, even if it’s long… it’ll save you lots of headaches! Also, be sure your taxi is metered, don’t ask for a forfeit price.

You’ll also often see the soon-to-be-helpful person that will lead you to the right platform or help you at the ticket machine. These people are only after your money . Once again, stay away from them and never show your tickets to anyone (you only have to show your ticket to access the platform and to the conductor on the train). If you’re being approached by suspicious people, just say “No thanks” or “Basta!”.

Don’t let scammers discourage you from taking trains in Italy – this could happen anywhere. And remember, there are people out there who are genuinely trying to help.

What to do when there’s a train strike in Italy 

No matter how much you plan ahead for your train travel in Italy, you might run into a sciopero dei trasporti (transportation strike). But luckily, strike plans aren’t a secret and they’re often announced well in advance. There’s even a website that lists all upcoming transport strikes . It’s in Italian only, but it’s not so hard to read – just filter for Trasporto Ferroviario under the Settore column.

Also, a sciopero can last from a few hours to all day and can involve the whole local transport system. However, minimum service is usually guaranteed during peak hours (6 am – 9 am and 6 pm – 9 pm).

Where do I put my suitcases when traveling on Italian trains?

First of all, there’s no luggage fee and no weight limit, and you can take your own suitcases on the train.

On regional trains, you can put your suitcases on the racks above your seat or just on the floor next to you.

On high-speed trains, you can put carry-ons and medium-sized suitcases on the shelf above your seat, but anything larger should go on the luggage racks at the end of each coach. You may also find a spot between two sets of seats.

I’ve never had a problem with my suitcases on trains, but if you’re worried, try seating close to the entrance of the train coach or buy a wire lock to secure your bag to the rack. Honestly, though, there’s no need for that.

I hope this guide will help you navigate the Italian train network and buy tickets with confidence. Now, why don’t you take a look at these day trips from Venice by train and start planning some sightseeing adventures?

Pssst… Pin this article for future reference and get in touch if you have any questions about train travel in Itay!

Ciao for now,

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32 thoughts on “the ultimate guide to train travel in italy ”.

Very good summary of train travel in Italy, Valentina. Good tips especially the explanation regarding the types of tickets. When I visited Italy I was surprised at how inexpensive train travel was compared to my own country.

Thanks so much Hazel, glad you find this useful!

I’m surprised to see an Italian recommend train travel in Italy. I’ve done several train journeys in Italy over the years and I always found them relatively reliable and convenient. However several of my Italian colleagues look at me in utter disbelief if I dare suggest taking a train in Italy to them. In their opinion this is the worst thing one could ever do (as I said, I never had a bad experience with trains in Italy). Very comprehensive guide, thanks a lot for sharing all those details. Especially when you don’t speak the language it can sometimes get a little confusing and overwhelming (well again, nothing compared to trying to find your train in france though) 😉

I love travelling by train in Italy! Ok, trains are not perfect everywhere, especially in the south train connections are not great, but still, I would recommend it to anyone 🙂

Oh yes, trains are the best way to travel in Italy, I do agree 🙂

Thank you Ann! 😀

I love riding the trains in Italy! I forgot which one I rode in Rome when I was there 2 years ago. In any case, I want to try Trenitalia and Italo again. It looks like very comfortable. It’s very easy to buy tickets too. Very efficient!

Both train companies are very good, although I tend to use more Italo lately 🙂

Excellent review of the train system in Italy. While reading your article, it strongly reminded me of the train system in Japan. There are local, express, and the Shinkansen (cross-country). Additionally, the tip about validating your ticket I found especially useful. I’ll definitely keep this post in mind during my upcoming trip!

Thank you Emily, glad you found it useful! 😀

I still remember my first train travel in Italy 13 years ago when I was a young college study-abroad student of course we had no idea about validation because nothing like that exists in the US so we took a couple train trips before we realized we had to validate our tickets and got caught out and given a ticket for it! Definitely all US or Australian visitors should be alerted to this when entering country!

It’s one of those things that you would never think of, right? And instead it’s key if you want to avoid being fined ;-D

During my first trip to Europe, the train system was very confusing to me. I definitely could’ve used this article back then! I thought the most helpful part of this article is that you translated the stations into what the locals know them as. That was the most confusing part for me. I can’t tell you how long I was looking for Prague when it was really Praha in Czech, ha! It’s also great to know that seats are the first-come-first-serve basis. A lot of travelers do not know that and it causes a lot of commotion on trains. Great tips!

The names of train stations can be really confusing even for an Italian sometimes, because one city can have multiple train stations and you need to know the name of the central one if you don’t want to end up in the middle of nowhere 😛

It can be a bit confusing getting trains in a foreign country so this is super useful when travelling to Italy. I did get a train there once to Malcesine, pleasant experience. Great advice about buying tickets online and where to do this. Validating your ticket is something most people wouldn’t know about either. Helpful article!

Thank you Vanessa!!

I have had the opportunity to travel in Italy and use trains which I think are absolutely fabulous way to travel. I used it to travel to the Capital Rome from Amalfi and must admit the service and facilities were spot on. The intercity are affordable and if booked in ad ave can get you some great bargains. This is a very informative post to help choose the right trains and an overview to people who are looking to use the train in Italy. Thanks.

Thank YOU Amar!

This is an excellent guide to train travel in Italy. I’ve only ever taken TrenItalia, and quite enjoyed it! I’ve not heard of Italo, so will look out for it the next time we’re back. Great tips on getting them online too, it makes it much easier.

Yep, try Italo, I love it!

Thanks for sharing a very informative guide on Italian trains with all information about how to purchase tickets and different types of train. During my 1 week tour to Italy, I took Trenitalia for commuting and it was very comfortable and on time. I too agree that stations of Italy are named in Italian and therefore for non-Italians, it is very confusing and therefore to know some stations in advance would be preferred.

This is such a useful post! I recently travelled from Verona to Trento by a train. And it would have been very useful if I read your post before.

I hope you managed to see something of Verona before boarding the train 😉

Thank you Yukti!!

I recently used the train to visit both Lake Garda and Venice whilst staying in .Verona and found it an excellent service, far better and cheaper than UK trains. I definitely want to see more of Italy using the train. How is the train service in Sicily?

In the south of Italy train connections (and public transport more in general) can be less frequent and with with fewer lines/connections. That’s why I tend to suggest to rent a car instead.

This is a really informative blog on trains in Italy. I think buying tickets online is a better idea than getting them in stations. Thanks for the tip for not trying to register online as only Italian citizens can do it. I would rather buy them online without getting bothered about registration.

It’s really easy to buy all the tickets online and saves you sooo much time!

Excellent post. I used to be checking continuously this blog and I’m impressed! Very helpful information particularly the remaining phase 🙂 I care for such information a lot. I was seeking this particular information for a very lengthy time. Thanks and good luck.

So glad you find this useful and thank so much for your kind words 😀

Hi If I book an Italobus connection from Rome to Sorrento can I go from Sorrento to Pompeii the next day with Italo? Thanks Joanne

Hey Joanne, thanks for stopping by! You can use the Circumvesuviana line (line 1) to travel between Sorrento and Pomepii, it takes about 30 minutes, check out this site: https://www.eavsrl.it/web/sites/default/files/ORARI%20NAPOLI%20SORRENTO%2BC.EXP_Orario%20in%20vigore_0.pdf

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Train Travel in Italy: all you need to know + how to plan the perfect journey

What’s in this article

Italy’s well-known for its rich history, striking architecture, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. 

Train travel is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore Italy’s magnificent cities and charming towns.

Italy boasts an extensive rail network that seamlessly connects major cities and picturesque countryside, offering a cosy and hassle-free journey.

The affordable tickets and trains’ speed and efficiency make travel much more accessible. When travelling between large cities, the trains have a perfect drop-off spot, avoiding the stress of parking and traffic jams.

Note that not all regions offer the same level of service and accessibility, prioritizing available options suitable for exploration.

This blog post discusses the differences between regional and high-speed trains and gives tips and tricks to ensure an unforgettable and smooth Italian train journey.

Begin your adventurous journey through the charming landscapes and vibrant cities of Italy.

In a previous article, I delved into the topic of renting a car in Italy and the joys of embarking on a memorable road trip in this captivating country.

Planning Your Train Travel in Italy

Research your route.

When preparing for your Italian train adventure, it’s important to plan ahead and research the various train routes available.

Fortunately, getting around Italy is a breeze, especially with the help of several handy apps that I personally love using when I’m planning my trips.

First, there’s the Moovit App , which is perfect for planning all kinds of trips. It focuses on public transportation and covers everything from subways and trains to ferries and buses.

It’s my go-to app that I really find useful for getting around.

Another app that I trust is Google Maps .

It’s always with me when I’m navigating public transport in Europe.

To use it, simply enter your destination and select the train icon when checking out the directions.

Apart from these apps, Trenitalia and Italo websites are also fantastic resources for finding train schedules and planning your journey.

Names of the major Italian train stations

In most larger Italian cities, you’ll find multiple train stations, with one typically serving as the “main” station. 

Here’s a friendly list of the main train stations in some popular Italian cities:

• Turin : Torino Porta Nuova 
• Venice : Venezia Santa Lucia
• Verona : Verona Porta Nuova
• Milan : Milano Centrale 
• La Spezia: La Spezia Centrale ( Cinque Terre )
• Florence: Firenze Santa Maria Novella (Firenze S.M.N.)
• Bologna: Bologna Centrale 
• Rome : Roma Termini
• Naples : Napoli Centrale
• Salerno : Stazione di Salerno Irno
• Palermo : Palermo Centrale
• Bari : Bari Centrale

Pro tip : To find the main train station in a city, search for “city name” plus “centrale” or “stazione”. For example, Milano Centrale or Stazione Milano.

Italy’s main train routes

Italy has several main train routes that connect the major cities and regions of the country. 

Some of the most popular and important train routes include:

• Milano – Roma : This route connects two of Italy’s most important cities, Milan and Rome. Both high-speed Frecciarossa (Trenitalia) and Italo trains operate on this route, and the journey takes about 3 hours.
• Firenze – Roma : This route connects the beautiful city of Florence with the capital, Rome. Both high-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains operate on this route, and the journey takes about an hour.
• Firenze – Venezia: This route connects the city of Florence with the floating city of Venice; the journey takes about 2 hours.
• Milano – Venezia : This route connects the fashion capital of Milan with the romantic city of Venice. The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Roma – Napoli : This route connects the capital Rome with the coastal city of Naples. Both high-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains operate on this route, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Roma – Venezia: This route connects Rome to Venice, and the journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• Milano – Torino : This route connects the two major cities of Milan and Turin. The journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Roma – Bari : This route connects Rome with the southern city of Bari. The journey takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes.
• Firenze – Napoli : This route connects the beautiful city of Florence with the coastal city of Naples. The journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

These are just a few examples of the fastest main train routes in Italy, but there are many other options available depending on your destination.

Once you’ve chosen your ideal route, remember that booking your train tickets in advance is highly recommended.

This will save you both time and money, as reserving ahead of time can lead to significant savings. 

But before you buy train tickets to Italy online, there are a few things to keep in mind.

What are the different types of trains in Italy?

Italy’s rail network features a variety of train types, from the high-speed trains like Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca, and Italo, to the convenient Intercity trains, and regional trains including Regionale, Interregionale, and Suburbano.

Trenitalia, the government-owned company, plays a pivotal role in operating the majority of trains in Italy, ensuring reliability and efficiency throughout the network. Now, let’s have a closer look at the different types of trains in Italy, their unique features and advantages.

Italy’s High-speed Trains: Trenitalia or Italo?

High-speed trains in Italy are designed for long-distance travel and connect major cities like Venice, Milan, Turin, Florence, Rome, and Naples, at impressive speeds. 

These trains can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), significantly reducing travel time between destinations.

High-speed trains offer a more comfortable travel experience with spacious seating, air conditioning, and power outlets for charging electronic devices.

Some of them also provide Wi-Fi and a dining car.

Here are the prominent high-speed train services in Italy :

• Frecce – Frecciargento, Frecciarossa, and Frecciabianca (Red, Silver, and White Arrows) are Trenitalia’s high-speed trains, with Frecciarossa being the fastest. Frecciarossa travels at up to 300 km/h (185 mph) and connects major cities daily. Frecciargento trains run on both high-speed and conventional lines, reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h (155 mph). Frecciabianca trains operate on traditional lines outside the high-speed network, achieving 250 km/h (155 mph) while ensuring comfort and quality services.
• Italo is a privately-owned high-speed train service that specialises in high-speed (alta velocità) intercity trains. Their service is comparable to Trenitalia’s, but they boast the newest and best trains, comfortable seats, ample space even in second class, and frequent great deals. Here you’ll find some of the latest deals !

Regional Trains in Italy

Italy’s regional trains are operated by Trenitalia and are more budget-friendly due to their slower pace and additional stops.

They are ideal for travelling short distances between smaller towns, making them perfect for uncovering Italy’s hidden gems. 

Regional trains are more basic in terms of comfort and amenities. 

They usually have fewer services on board and may not have air conditioning or power outlets.

Here are the two primary types of regional trains:

• Regionale (R) – Regional trains connect towns and cities within a specific region. They travel at slower speeds and have frequent stops. They’re perfect for visiting quaint towns and villages. 
• Regionale Veloce (RV) – These faster regional trains offer an accelerated service compared to regular regional trains. While they stop at fewer stations, they are an excellent option for covering slightly longer distances within a specific region.

InterCity Trains

InterCity trains bridge the gap between high-speed and regional trains, reaching 200 km/h (125 mph). 

They serve medium-sized cities and smaller destinations and are the lowest level among train categories requiring reservations. 

Here are the key features of InterCity trains:

• InterCity (IC) – These trains connect major cities across Italy, offering a balance between speed and affordability. They are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and onboard amenities, ensuring a pleasant journey. You’ll also find Eurocity (EC) high-speed trains that cross borders, such as those from France to Italy.
• InterCity Notte – InterCity Notte trains are night trains connecting major cities across Italy and Europe (Euronight ) and are operated by Trenitalia. They are a convenient option to cover long distances while enjoying a restful sleep onboard. They offer sleeper cabins and couchettes, making them a popular choice for overnight travel between cities.

Other Specialised Trains in Italy

Italy also boasts a few specialised train services that cater to unique travel experiences:

• Leonardo Express – Operating between Rome’s Termini Station and Fiumicino Airport, the Leonardo Express is an efficient airport transfer train. It provides a quick and reliable connection, allowing travellers to easily reach the heart of Rome or catch a flight.
• Bernina Express – Crossing the breathtaking landscapes of the Italian and Swiss Alps, the Bernina Express is a panoramic train journey that takes you through UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It offers unrivalled views of snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, and charming alpine villages.
• Campania Express is a brand new train service that conveniently connects the vibrant cities of Naples and Sorrento. Operating along the same route as the Circumvesuviana commuter train tracks, this service offers a higher level of comfort and convenience with its limited stops and enhanced amenities. With allocated seating and refreshing air conditioning, the Campania Express aims to provide a more pleasant travel experience, catering specifically to tourists. While it may not be luxurious, it proves to be a fantastic option, especially if you’re travelling with bulky luggage or children.
• Malpensa Express is a dedicated shuttle that seamlessly links Milan-Malpensa Airport to the bustling Milan Central Station. To ensure a hassle-free journey, tickets for the Malpensa Express can be conveniently purchased in advance through their user-friendly website or obtained on the day of departure at the station itself.
• In addition to these services, Italy boasts several other remarkable train options. Trenord (Lombardy regional trains), the Circumetnea (taking you around the majestic Mt. Etna), and the Circumvesuviana (connecting Naples to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Sorrento).

Train Travel in Italy Tickets: First and Second Class  

There isn’t a significant gap between travelling in first and second class on trains in Italy. 

Most visitors find second class perfectly satisfactory. 

However, first-class ticket holders can enjoy a few extra perks, such as additional space, more legroom, a light snack, and a newspaper.

Here are some more details about the different ticket classes available in Italy:

Trenitalia – Frecciarossa High-Speed Services :

– Second Class / Standard: This class offers WiFi, air conditioning, power outlets, tables, food, and bar service, as well as an entertainment portal.

– First Class / Premium : In addition to the amenities provided in Standard, Passengers in Premium class enjoy spacious leather seats, newspapers, and a welcome drink.

– Business Class : Similar to First Class, Business Class offers extra leg and elbow room, as well as table service.

• Executive Class : Executive Class provides the same benefits as First Class but also includes 10-seat coaches, access to the station’s club lounge, gourmet meals, and even access to a 6-seat meeting room.

Trenitalia – Other Frecce and InterCity trains :

• You’ll find both first and second-class options available. Occasionally, there are also Business, Premium, or Standard classes, although they may not be as luxurious as the Frecciarossa trains. However, rest assured that these trains still offer a comfortable journey, complete with amenities like air conditioning and individual power sockets. While the first class does provide a bit more space, the overall difference between the two classes is not significant.

Trenitalia – Regional and Regional Veloce trains :

• Second class is the standard choice, with occasional trains offering first class as well. First-class tickets may come at a slightly higher price, but they offer a quieter and more peaceful environment for your journey.

Italo Trains:

• Second Class / Smart Ambience : In Smart Ambience, passengers can expect WiFi, air conditioning, power sockets, comfortable leather seats, and a snack area.
• First Class / Ambience Prima: similar to Smart but with additional space and wider seats, fast track services, individual power sockets, in-seat catering, and newspapers.
• Club Ambience : Club Ambience class goes a step further, providing all the perks of Prima, along with dedicated catering services, personal screens, and access to Club lounges in major stations.

Keep in mind that the services and amenities offered in first and second class can vary depending on the train and the route, so it is always best to check the specific train’s website or ask the train company for more information.

Italy train travel: Should you buy train tickets in advance?

It is generally a good idea to buy train tickets in advance, as they can be cheaper than buying them on the day of travel.

Additionally, booking in advance ensures that you secure a seat, as trains can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times.

As expected, high-speed train tickets are generally more expensive than regional train tickets. 

However, if you book in advance, you can find discounted fares for high-speed trains, making them a more affordable option for long-distance travel.

Tickets usually become available 3-4 months before the travel date, and the earlier you book, the better the deals you can find. 

Keep in mind that discounted tickets are limited and may sell out quickly. 

There’s no need to worry about booking regional train tickets in advance, as their prices are based on the distance you’ll be travelling, which means there aren’t any early booking discounts. 

Just head to the station when you’re ready to travel and grab your tickets from the ticket window or an automated kiosk.

But hey, if you prefer a more convenient option, you can always purchase your regional rail tickets online. 

This way, they’ll be ready on your phone, and you can skip the lines at the ticket machines. 

One crucial tip to remember before boarding a regional train, is to make sure to validate your ticket at the validation machines located on the departure platform. Failure to do so may result in a fine.

High-speed train tickets purchased online or at the ticket counter are automatically validated and do not require this step.

Let’s recap the main train types in Italy and whether they require advance booking or not:

• Long-distance or high-speed trains: These trains, such as the Frecciarossa and Italo , are very popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel season. It’s a good idea to book your tickets as far in advance as possible to secure a seat. Online booking typically offers the best prices, and fares tend to increase as the departure date approaches. High-speed trains connect major cities like Naples, Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice, and tickets for most of these routes can be purchased three to four months in advance.
• Regional and Intercity Trains: There’s no need to book regional trains in advance. These trains are priced based on the distance travelled, so there are no early booking discounts. Simply arrive at the station and purchase your tickets at the ticket window or automated kiosk. However, it’s still a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel season, or if you prefer to have them readily available on your phone, saving you from waiting in line at the ticket machines.
• Night trains: These trains, such as the InterCity Notte and the Euronight, are convenient for overnight travel, but it’s a good idea to book in advance, as sleeping compartments and couchettes can fill up quickly.

In general, booking your tickets at least a few weeks in advance is recommended to ensure you have a seat and that the fare is reasonable. 

If you are travelling during peak season, such as the summer or Christmas holidays, it’s even more important to book as early as possible.

When it comes to choosing between intercity or regional trains and high-speed trains, it’s worth noting that high-speed trains are faster and more comfortable. 

While they may be more expensive, the time savings they offer often make up for the additional cost. 

However, if you’re on a tight budget, there’s no shame in opting for a cheaper train option.

W here to buy Italy train tickets?

There are several ways to buy train tickets in Italy:

• Online : You can purchase train tickets online on the Trenitalia website and the Italo website . This is the most convenient and quickest way to buy train tickets.
• Train stations : You can also purchase train tickets at train stations. This is a good option if you prefer to buy in person or if you need assistance with your purchase.
• Self-service ticket machines : Most train stations have self-service ticket machines, which can be used to buy train tickets.
• Third-party booking platforms like Trainline or Omio are fantastic search engines that offer a convenient way to compare and book train tickets throughout Europe. These platforms make it incredibly easy to purchase tickets using your credit card, and you can secure them at the same price as the official Trenitalia website. Another noteworthy aspect is that these platforms are designed specifically for English-speaking travellers, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

Keep in mind that when purchasing a train ticket, you’ll need to provide the departure and arrival stations, the date and time of travel, and the class of service (e.g., first class or second class).

Are rail passes a good value for Italy?

Well, it’s worth considering before making a decision, especially if your travel plans are primarily focused on exploring Italy.

In Italy, the majority of train passengers tend to take short rides within the popular Milan-Venice-Florence-Rome circuit. These journeys typically cost less than €50 for a second-class ticket. In such cases, buying point-to-point train tickets turns out to be more cost-effective than purchasing a rail pass, which often exceeds €50 per day. It’s also important to note that most high-speed trains in Italy require you to make a paid seat reservation when using a Eurail pass; the reservation costs around €10 per seat.

You must make the reservation before you get on the train, limiting the convenience of a rail pass for frequent hopping on and off.

That being said, it’s important to consider that longer-term rail passes offer reduced per-day fees. So if you’re planning to embark on extensive train travel throughout Italy or even beyond as part of a larger European trip, a rail pass could be a more sensible choice.

Do I need to print my tickets?

In Italy, you have a few options for how to present your train tickets:

• Print your ticket : You can print your train ticket at home or save the PDF to your phone or tablet and have the conductor scan it from there. This is a good option if you prefer to have a physical copy of your ticket.
• Use the Trenitalia or Italo app : You can download the Trenitalia or Italo app on your smartphone and use it to purchase and show your train tickets. Make sure to have your phone fully charged and the app open with the ticket displayed when boarding the train.
• Use the Electronic Ticket : Some train tickets can be sent to your email, and you can show them on your phone or tablet. Make sure that you can access the email or have a printout of the ticket when boarding the train.
• Pickup from the Station : Print your tickets at the train station using your credit card or a booking number.

It’s worth noting that some train stations or trains may not have the capability to check electronic tickets, so it’s a good idea to have a backup option, such as a printout or a screenshot of the ticket on your phone.

In general, it’s always a good idea to double-check the specific train’s website or ask the train company for more information on how to present your ticket before your trip.

Tips for a Smooth Train Travel in Italy

Boarding a train in Italy is relatively straightforward, but here are some tips to make the process go smoothly:

• Pack Light: Train stations in Italy often have stairs and limited elevator access. To make your journey more comfortable, pack light and use luggage with wheels for easy maneuverability.
• Arrive at the station early : It is a good idea to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train departs. This will give you ample time to locate your platform, validate your ticket (if necessary), and find your seat.
• Buy your ticket : If you haven’t pre-booked a ticket, you can easily purchase one either from a ticket machine or in person at the station.
• Check the departure platform number : Make sure you know the departure platform number (Partenze in Italian) of your train, as it will be displayed on the electronic boards in the station. Keep in mind that the display might only show the final destination. Therefore, it’s a good idea to verify the train number on your ticket to ensure you’re headed in the right direction (look at the example in the photos above).
• Validate your ticket: If you’re traveling on a regional train, don’t forget to validate your ticket at the validation machines located on the platform. Failure to do so may result in a hefty fine, so make sure you get it validated to avoid any trouble. High-speed train tickets purchased online or at the ticket counter are automatically validated and do not require this step.
• Show your ticket: It’s worth noting that Italian rail stations do not have security checks. Instead, there will be ticket inspections conducted onboard the train, so ensure you have a valid ticket ready for inspection.
• Check the coach number: Before the train arrives, check the location of your designated carriage, the number on the train, and the one on your ticket. Being in the right place ahead of time allows you to board promptly, as the train won’t wait for latecomers.
• Find your seat: Once you are on the train, locate your seat. Your seat number will be printed on your ticket. Keep your ticket with you, as you may be asked to show it again during the journey.
• Store your luggage: Once you have found your seat, store your luggage in the overhead compartments or the designated luggage areas at the end of each carriage. This way, you can keep your belongings safe and ensure a comfortable journey. Be mindful of the space and other passengers.
• Enjoy the ride: Sit back and enjoy the beautiful Italian countryside as you travel to your destination.
• Get off at the right stop: Make sure you know the name of the station you are getting off at and be ready to disembark when the train arrives. One important thing to remember is that trains only stop for a short period during a changeover. Be aware of the limited time and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth transition.

Beware of Train Station Scams in Italy

When it comes to train travel in Italy, you can generally expect a safe and convenient experience.

However, it’s important to be aware of potential scams and situations that may compromise your security.

Here are a few things to watch out for:

Ticketing Machine Scam

One common scam involves individuals posing as helpful assistants at ticketing machines.

These people may approach you while you’re purchasing your ticket and offer their assistance.

It’s important to note that unless they are wearing official Trenitalia or Italo Treno attire and carrying identification, they are not there to genuinely help you, at least not without expecting something in return.

They may be looking for a tip or, even worse, attempting to pickpocket you.

Stay cautious, and don’t fall for their tricks.

Baggage Handling “Helpers”

If you’re travelling with large and heavy suitcases, be prepared for individuals who claim to be helpful and offer assistance with your luggage.

However, it’s crucial to remember that these individuals are not official porters but rather people seeking tips or, in some cases, trying to steal your belongings.

Be especially cautious if someone approaches you too closely or offers excessive help.

While there are genuinely kind people out there, it’s essential to maintain awareness and keep your belongings secure at all times.

While these scams exist, it’s important to remember that they don’t overshadow the overall safety and convenience of train travel in Italy.

By staying vigilant, using common sense, and keeping your valuables close, you can greatly reduce the chances of falling victim to such scams.

Dealing with Train Strikes in Italy

Train strikes (sciopero dei treni in Italian) are not uncommon in Italy.

Keep an eye on local news and the Trenitalia website for any strike announcements.

If a strike occurs, your train may be delayed or cancelled.

In such cases, Trenitalia usually offers alternative transportation or a refund.

The impact of a strike can vary, ranging from major disruptions affecting multiple trains and journeys to minor inconveniences limited to specific routes.

However, rest assured that a basic level of essential services is typically maintained.

If you find yourself travelling during a train strike, it’s crucial to remain flexible and adaptable.

Stick to your original schedule and first check if your train is still operating as planned.

If it’s not, don’t panic.

Instead, seek out alternative options recommended by the service providers to help you reach your destination.

It’s important to note that predicting the exact impact of the strike on your specific train can be challenging without advance notice.

Therefore, the best approach is to stay informed and go with the flow as the situation unfolds.

Keep an open mind and consider the available alternatives that arise along the way.

While a train strike can be frustrating, it’s also an opportunity to embrace the unexpected and find creative solutions to continue your journey.

Be Prepared for Delays

Train delays can happen, especially on regional trains.

Keep an open mind and be prepared for potential delays.

Use this time to enjoy the scenery, chat with fellow travellers, or catch up on your reading.

Learn Basic Italian Phrases For Train Travel

Please note that this blog post is not an exact transcript of the podcast episode linked below. However, if you give it a listen, you’ll find the pronunciation of the Italian words, which are conveniently highlighted in bold.

While many Italians speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your train travel experience.

Simple phrases like “Buongiorno” (good morning), “Grazie” (thank you), and “Scusi” (excuse me) can go a long way in making your journey more enjoyable and immersive.

Here are some more Italian train travel vocabulary:

• Treno – train
• Stazione ferroviaria – Train station
• Ferrovia – railroad, railway 
• Biglietto – ticket
• Di sola andata – one way only
• Andata e ritorno – return trip
• Orario dei treni – Timetable
• Partenza – departure
• Arrivo – Arrival
• Binario – platform / track 
• Sottopassaggio – underpass 
• In ritardo – late
• In anticipo – early 
• Prenotazione – reservation
• Carrozza – carriage 
• Posto a sedere – Seat
• Prima classe – First class
• Seconda classe – Second class
• Bagaglio – luggage

And here are some common expressions you’ll need when asking for information:

• Dov’è la stazione ferroviaria / dei treni? – Where is the train station?
• A che ora parte il treno? – What time does the train leave?
• A che ora arriva il treno? – What time does the train arrive?
• Dove posso comprare i biglietti? – Where can I buy tickets? 
• Posso comprare il biglietto qui? – Can I buy a ticket here?
• Quanto costa il biglietto per (city name)? – How much does the ticket to (city) cost?
• Vorrei comprare un biglietto per (city name) – I would like to buy a ticket to …
• Un biglietto di sola andata per (city name), per favore. – A one way ticket to …,please.
• Un biglietto di andata e ritorno per (city name), per favore. – A return ticket for (city name), please.
• Da quale binario parte il treno per (city name)? – From which platform does the train for …leave?
• Dov’è il binario (platform number)? – Where is the platform (number)?
• È libero questo posto? – Is this seat taken?
• Mi può aiutare con il bagaglio, per favore? – Can you help me with my luggage, please?
• Qual’è la prossima fermata? – What is the next stop?
• È in ritardo il treno? – Is the train late?

Essential Tips for Train Stations and Train Safety in Italy

When navigating train stations in Italy, it’s crucial to prioritise your safety in the midst of the bustling crowds.

While train travel in Italy is generally safe, it’s essential to keep an eye on your luggage at all times.

Use luggage racks above your seat or at the end of the car for small bags, and keep valuable items with you.

Avoid carrying wallets in back pockets or using unattended pockets, such as those found on backpacks.

In the evening, train stations and local trains may attract individuals looking to cause trouble.

This situation can be particularly unpleasant and potentially hazardous, especially for solo female travellers.

Exercise extra caution after nightfall and adhere to basic safety precautions as you would in any major city.

In a nutshell

Train travel in Italy offers a unique and memorable way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

By planning your route, choosing the right train type, and following my tips for a smooth journey, you’ll have a pleasant and stress-free experience while traveling by train in Italy.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to leave a comment or DM me, I’ll be happy to help.

Ciao e Buon viaggio!

Disclaimer : This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I will earn a small commission if you use these links at absolutely no cost to you! This will help me be able to continue to run Italia Like A Local. Thank you so much for your support!

I'm a freelance travel writer and SEO copywriter, and I absolutely love what I do. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and traveling is the ultimate source of inspiration for me. In fact, I became particularly drawn to planning travel experiences in Italy back in 2015, and I've been hooked ever since!

I'm what you might call a "slow traveler" - someone who likes to take their time exploring new places and soaking up different cultures. And when I started writing about my travels a few years ago, I was blown away by the incredible opportunity it gave me to share my experiences with others and learn from them in turn. It's truly an amazing thing!

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Exploring Italy by train

Jun 21, 2016 • 6 min read

With some of Europe’s fastest trains and most scenic routes, Italy is a great place to travel by train. The country might be more famous for its deluxe sports cars and challenging driving conditions, but Italian trains are economical, comfortable and direct, offering an insight into local life, often with great views thrown into the bargain.

With a bit of savvy route-planning and a flexible schedule, you can quite easily piece together an itinerary that’ll make the journey just as impressive as the destination.

Travel in style on Italy’s fastest trains

If you thought Ferraris were fast, you’ve clearly never travelled on a Frecciarossa 1000 , Italy’s arrow-headed high-velocity trains that reach a top cruising speed of 300km/h. The fastest Frecciarossas connect Turin , Milan and Venice in the north before heading further south via Bologna and Florence to Rome , Naples and Salerno .

As a rule, the fastest Rome–Naples trip clocks in at a smidgen over an hour, Rome–Florence zips by in roughly 90 minutes, while Rome–Venice takes 3 hours 40 minutes, which is still very respectable considering the same journey takes well over five hours by car. On these and other main routes, there are approximately two trains an hour.

These streamlined rockets-on-wheels are not only faster than Ferraris, they’re also invitingly comfortable with leather seats, a complimentary glass of prosecco (in business class) and a relatively luxurious dining car where the view changes every five seconds.

Italy’s most scenic train journeys

The speed of Freccia trains means that the scenery is often rendered a blur. For Italy’s most spectacular rail journeys, you’ll have to seek out small private lines and abandon any stringent time constraints.

The epic Centovalli , or ‘100 valleys’, line that starts in Domodossola in Piedmont and travels across 83 bridges in two hours of condensed alpine splendour to terminate in Locarno in Switzerland .

Another beauty is Sardinia ’s intentionally slow Trenino Verde , renovated in the 1990s, that runs four summer-only tourist trains along narrow-gauge track through some of the island’s most remote enclaves.

Equally seductive is the Ferrovia Circumetnea  which rattles out of Catania in Sicily circumnavigating Mt Etna on a diminutive locomotive that looks more like a trolley bus than a train. En route it crosses lemon groves and lava flows, stopping at remote stations every five minutes.

Rail is also the best way to travel in some of Italy’s most scenic and popular destinations, including the Cinque Terre , where cheap trains connect the five picturesque cliff-top villages, passing through numerous tunnels in the steep cliffs and giving views of the ocean. The bargainous Circumvesuviana connects Naples with Sorrento via the archaeological sites of Herculaneum and  Pompeii , providing views of Mt Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples along the way.

Arriving in Italy by train

Some of Italy’s finest train journeys cross its international borders with its neighbours to the north. The Brenner Pass route that links Munich with Venice over the Alps is sometimes touted as the finest train ride in Europe, while the EuroNight overnight train between Rome and Vienna with two-bed sleepers (from €100) is a fun option if you’ve never bedded down on a train.

If you’ve got over £2000 to blow and want to imagine you’re living in a Graham Greene novel or an Agatha Christie whodunit, take the Venice Simplon Orient-Express ( belmond.com ) from London (or Paris) to La Serenissima . This luxury art deco hotel on wheels runs roughly once a week between March and November and was seemingly invented with romance in mind.

Turin’s recently refurbished Porta Susa station is a terminus for French TGV trains which provide rapid service to Lyon and Paris . Milan offers Thello ( thello.com ) overnight trains to Paris or daytime coastal trains to Nice and Marseilles . By using a mixture of Eurostar and TGVs, it’s possible to travel between Milan and London in one day for a cost of around €65 (or Paris for as little as €25) and you get to see awe-inspiring alpine scenery into the bargain.

Operators and train types

The lion’s share of the country’s rolling stock is run by state-owned subsidiary, Trenitalia ( trenitalia.com ) which presides over a complex spiderweb of lines that penetrates all 20 of the country’s regions.

Alongside the flagship Frecciarossa, they also operate Frecciargento tilting trains, which run between Rome and Venice at speeds of up to 250km/h. Slightly lower down the speed scale are Frecciabianca and Intercity trains, though these are still usually faster than driving, especially when you factor in traffic and parking.

If budget is more of a concern than speed or you want to get to smaller towns and villages, you’ll probably find yourself travelling on  regionale trains, which are surprisingly cheap and stop at all stations. The regionales ’ sometimes well-worn carriages aren’t exactly opulent, but a tight holiday budget will stretch a lot further travelling this way.

Providing a bit of friendly competition at the high-velocity end of things are the new-ish Italo trains ( italotreno.it ) run by NTV, which offer free wifi and lunch boxes provided by high-end food market, Eataly. Like the Frecciarossa, they connect Salerno and Naples in the south with Venice, Milan and Turin in the north, passing through Rome, Florence and Bologna on the way.

Tickets and passes

Rail passes such as Eurail and InterRail won’t usually save you money in Italy, because you still have to pay a reservation fee of around €10 for high-speed trains, and tickets for regular trains aren't expensive. It’s generally cheaper to purchase separate tickets for each journey.

High-speed train tickets come with a specific seat reservation and must be purchased before you get on the train. You can buy tickets online or in person at booths and multi-lingual machines (called biglietto veloce ) in stations.

Although trains rarely sell out, pre-booking can save you a lot of money. You can normally book tickets up to four months in advance, the earlier the better if you want to qualify for ‘economy’ or ‘super-economy’ fares which can – with luck – cost less than half the amount of same-day tickets.

Regionale trains, which stop at nearly every station, don’t require reservations. Just pay for your ticket before departure, jump on the train and grab a seat wherever you like.

Validating your ticket

Legion are the tourists who have been caught out by ticket validation in Italy. As regional train tickets aren’t dated, you must ‘time-stamp’ them in a convalida machine on the platform before boarding the train.

Ticket inspectors can fine people travelling with an un-validated ticket (around €50 if you pay on the spot) and although pleas of being an ignorant tourist sometimes work, it’s generally not worth the risk – or embarrassment.

Tickets for high-speed trains don’t require validation, as they can only be used on the specific service they are valid for.

Italy’s train stations inhabit a sliding scale that starts with Rome’s massive Stazione Termini, a mini-city with bookshops, bars and restaurants, and filters down to the kind of single-platform middle-of-nowhere stations that walkers stagger into at the end of lengthy hikes. Most reasonably sized towns will have a centrally located station with a bar where you can grab at least a caffè and a panino, along with slightly iffy toilets.

Stations in large cities like Naples, Milan and Florence are rarely more than a kilometre from the city centre. Venice’s Santa Lucia station even abuts the Grand Canal. But beware: some cities have more than one train station. Turin has two (Porta Susa and Porta Nuova); Rome has four, the most central being Termini (the others are Tiburtina, Ostiense and Trastevere).

Punctuality

Popular legend suggests it was Mussolini who made Italy’s trains run on time, though it’s debatable that Il Duce was solely responsible for ending railway tardiness. Suffice to say, Italian trains are rarely inordinately late and probably suffer fewer delays than planes or car travel. However, keep an eye on the random one-day scioperi (strikes) which are part of Italian culture and can bring public transport to a virtual standstill.

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The Best of Italy by Train: A Two Week Itinerary

You have just two weeks in Italy and want to make the most of your time.  The perfect Italy trip will have you seeing as much as possible but not heading home feeling like you need another holiday to get over the holiday.

This is where touring Italy by train is the perfect choice for you. So, I’ve put together what I think is the perfect two week Italy itinerary by train.

If you’re from the US, Australia or maybe other parts of the world, you will know that our countries long distance rail systems are not what you would call efficient, time or money saving. Visit Europe or Asia and you will wonder why we just can’t seem to get it right because really it seems so simple over there.

Europe is perfect for train travel and travelling around Italy by train is no exception. Their services are fast, efficient, reasonably priced and generally run on time.

Being able to hop on the train in the centre of one place and arrive in the centre of another in a matter of hours is much more convenient and less stressful that negotiating busy airports or driving long distances and having to find a parking spot. The seats and carriages are clean and comfortable plus you get to spend some time relaxing and gazing out the window watching the stunning scenery pass by.

Italy’s train network runs to every major city and most smaller cities and towns making it easy to get from place to place. There is a lot to see in Italy but with only two weeks you will need to be selective in the places you visit.

This Italy train itinerary takes in four of the country’s major cities, one small town, one stunning coastal region, offers plenty of time for day trips to nearby regions and allows you just enough time to see the major sights in each place without making you rush around from place to place.

Italy Train Two Week Itinerary

Train Tickets

While travelling by train is never going to be as cheap as taking a bus, or in some cases flying with a budget airline, it is going to be more comfortable, scenic and time saving.

There is a lot of debate about whether purchasing a rail pass is the most cost effective option when travelling by train in Europe. Really, it all comes down to the amount of travel days you plan on taking during your trip.

For this exact itinerary above (not including day trips), you will have five travel days, Rome to Assisi, Assisi to Florence, Florence to La Spezia, La Spezia to Milan and Milan to Venice. Here are the average prices based on one adult travelling alone for both point to point tickets and rail pass.

Point to Point – Adult point to point tickets including seat reservation fee where applicable for all of the five journeys – 1st Class €145.00* or 2nd Class €95.00*.

Rail Pass – Adult Italy Rail Pass for five days of travel in a one month period – 1st Class €376.00* or 2nd Class €282.00* plus seat reservation fees where applicable.

The cheapest option by far for this itinerary is to purchase point to point tickets .

To research more and purchase point to point tickets or rail passes, click on one of the links below for your home country.

Alternatively, tickets are available at all Trenitalia train stations across Italy on the day or in advance but prices will likely be higher and there may not be availability for specific trains, especially high speed services.

For a comprehensive guide to Europe train travel I recommend The Man in Seat 61 . Or for an accurate one stop shop of Europe train timetables check out the German Bahn website.

* Prices correct as at time of publishing.

Days 1 to 3 – Rome

To start your 2 weeks in Italy by train, arrive into Rome on day 1. This itinerary assumes that you arrive in the morning giving you three quarters of a day to start seeing the sights.

Rome is the capital of Italy and once capital of the Roman Empire. This sprawling city is famous for its Roman ruins, incredible architecture, collection of world class artworks and home to the worlds smallest country, Vatican City.

What to See & Do in Rome

Vatican City – The home of the pope and the catholic church. Inside you will find incredible architecture and world class art including Michelangelo’s famous painted ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Wait times to enter the museum and Sistine Chapel can be long if you don’t have a pre-purchased ticket. Get it here.

The Colosseum – The largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire and the world. While not still in tact today, it still gives a fascinating glimpse into its past.

Roman Forum – As the heart of ancient Rome, the Forum was, and still is, one of the most celebrated meeting places in the history of the world. Your ticket to the Colosseum also includes entry to the Forum where you can wander around the ruins and take a walk up Palatine Hill for views over the Forum and the city.

Save money and time waiting in queues by pre-purchasing a combine Colosseum and Roman Forum priority entry ticket here . Or join this very affordable guided tour with expert guide.

The Pantheon – One of the best preserved Roman buildings remaining in the world. What is most incredible about the Pantheon is that most of its original features remain including the marble floors.

Spanish Steps – The worlds most famous staircase is constantly abuzz with people day and night.

Trevi Fountain – Do as the legend says and throw a coin in the fountain to ensure you one day return to Rome.

Piazza Navona – The city’s most beautiful square, featuring three spectacular fountains and surrounded by some of the city’s best baroque architecture.

Rome’s Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is one of the best I’ve taken around the world. The routes cover everything you could possibly want to see in Rome and passes last for 24, 48 or 72 hours giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Pre-purchase your tickets here to avoid the queues and save.

Where to Stay in Rome

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Hotel Domus Praetoria

Mid-Range – Sophie Terrace Hotel

Luxury – Anantara Palazzo Naiadi

Read More About Rome

30 Things to Do in Rome

Day 4 – Assisi

Train: Rome to Assisi – approx. 2 hours with about half a dozen direct departures each day. Take an early morning departure from Rome giving you most of the day in Assisi.

Assisi is a small town perched high on a hill in the region of Umbria approximately half way between Rome and Florence. It is a UNESCO World Heritage listed town that is famous for is magnificent medieval architecture and for being the birth place of Saint Francis.

What to See & Do in Assisi

Rocca Maggiore – Hike up to the ruins of a castle perched high above the town. It was rebuilt in the 14th century but originated from the times of Charlemagne.

Basilica of Saint Frances – Construction began on the basilica two years after the death of Saint Francis in 1228.  The complex consists of two churches built on top of one another with frescoes on the walls dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Saint Francis is buried in the crypt under the basilica.

A walking tour that includes a visit to the Basilica with an expert guide is a great way to understand the history of this great town in a short amount of time. You can book in advance here to avoid missing out.

Piazza Santa Chiara – Perfect place for views over the Umbrian countryside and olive groves below. It’s always buzzing with visitors and locals. Also check out the basilica of the same name in the square.

Piazza del Comune – Take a seat on the stone steps of the Temple of Minerva for some people watching while eating a gelato.

Wander the streets – The most rewarding of these things to do in Assisi is simply wander its steep cobblestone streets, stopping in local artisan and food stores and admiring the pink hued architecture of this beautiful town.

Where to Stay in Assisi

Budget – Hotel La Fortezza

Mid-Range – Hotel Porta Nuova

Luxury – Nun Assis Relais & Spa Museum

Day 5 to 7 – Florence

Train : Assisi to Florence – approx. 2.5 hours with about half a dozen direct departures each day. Take an early morning departure from Assisi to maximise your time in Florence.

Florence is a Renaissance city in the heart of one of the most beautiful regions in the world, Tuscany. It is home to some of Italy’s most incredible churches and some of the worlds most famous works of art.

What to See & Do in Florence

Duomo, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – This massive cathedral in the heart of Florence is a must see for it’s pink and green marble exterior, interior that holds 20,000 people and bell tower which you can climb for panoramic views over Florence. Skip the queues and get your entry ticket here in advance.

Piazza della Signoria – The heart of Florence’s old town. Visit to see the free open-air sculpture gallery including a copy of Michelangelo’s David and to check out the impressive medieval Palazzo Vecchio.

Pont Vecchio – Florence’s first bridge built over the Arno river in 1345 and the only one that survived WWII bombing of the city. It is lined with shops selling gold and silver jewellery. Make sure you view it from one of the adjacent bridges as well as walk over it.

Galleria delgi Uffizi – Home to the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art including painting, sculptures and tapestries from medieval times up to the modern day. At the busiest times of year, you can’t get into this gallery without a pre-booked ticket, purchase it here to avoid missing out.

Galleria dell’ Academia – If you want to see the original Michelangelo’s David, then this is where you will find it. Along with this famous statue are paintings and sculptures from the 13th to 16th centuries as well as a collection of instruments started by the Medici family. Get a timed entry ticket here to avoid the queues at Florence’s most popular attraction.

Mercato Centrale – If your looking to do a bit of shopping in Italy then this market in Florence is the perfect place to purchase genuine leather goods, souvenirs, antiques and food.

Day Trip to Tuscany – Enjoy a day outside of the city visiting some of the wineries and hill towns this region is famous for. This tour is very well rounded with visits to both big and small towns in Tuscany and a Chianti winery. Book it here.

Italian Cooking Class – Food in Italy is life and there is no better way to experience the Italian way of life than with a food market and cooking class. On this tour you will spend over five hours with a local chef, visiting the local market to source ingredients, cooking with them to make delicious Italian food and finally sitting down to enjoy eating what you have made.

Where to Stay in Florence

Budget – Hotel Por Santa Maria

Mid-Range – Hotel Calimala

Luxury – Portrait Firenze Lungarno Collection

Read More About Florence

Things to Do in Florence

Day 8 to 9 – Cinque Terre

Train: Florence to Le Spezia – approx. 2.5 hours with about half a dozen direct departures each day. Take a mid afternoon train from Florence, arriving in Le Spezia (the best town to base yourself for walking Cinque Terre) early evening. Get a good nights rest ready for a day of walking.

Cinque Terre translates to Five Lands and comprises the five small coastal villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. Each charming and colourful village clings to the cliff face overlooking the ocean and is accessible only by boat, train and on foot.

What to See & Do in Cinque Terre

First thing in the morning, head to La Spezia train station and go to the tourist office on platform number one and purchase a €16.00 Cinque Terre hiking and train pass. This gives you access to Cinque Terre National Park, unlimited train travel between La Spezia and the five Cinque Terre towns plus free entry to a selection of museums and attractions in the towns for a full day (multi-day passes are also available).

Once you have your ticket, take the train to the first town, Riomaggiore. From there you have three options in terms of exploring these five villages which are all easily achievable in one full day. This is one of the most spectacular ways to see Italy by train, so make sure you nab yourself a window seat on the left of the train.

Option 1 – Train – You can continue to take the train from village to village using your pass getting off in each village to explore and then taking the train back to La Spezia at the end of the day.

Option 2 – Walking – This is the most popular option but does require a moderate to high level of fitness to complete the whole track in one day. There are four walks, one between each of the villages, and each one has a different degree of difficulty based on how steep and long the trail is. All four walking trails are not always open due to landslides and weather conditions and information on these closures will be given to you with your ticket.

Here is a brief description of what to expect on each trail.

Riomaggiore to Manarola – The easiest and shortest of the trails. It is relatively flat and takes the average walker around 20 minutes.

Manarola to Corniglia – A bit more challenging. The walk takes about 45 minutes and is mostly skirting along beaches before climbing up to Corniglia.

Corniglia to Vernazza – Arguably the most challenging of the four trails. This trail takes about 90 minutes and requires a lot of walking up and down. But you are compensated for your hard work by the best views the Cinque Terre has to offer.

Vernazza to Monterosso – Pretty close in toughness as the trail before but this time a bit more flat. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views back on Vernazza.

You would then take the train back to La Spezia from Monterosso at the end of the day.

Option 3 – Combination of Both – If you don’t think you are fit enough to conquer the whole trail then you have the option of combining both walking and taking the train. The first trail, from Riomaggiore to Manarola is a simple flat walk that is suitable for most fitness levels. And if after completing that section, you feel up to it, you can continue on to Corniglia by foot or just jump on the train. Then taking the train back to La Spezia at the end of the day.

As for things to do in Cinque Terre other than hiking, there isn’t anything specific that I would suggest you see. Instead wander up and down the cobblestone lanes checking out the small churches, local food and artisan stores. Stop for a meal (the seafood here is amazing!), coffee and gelato in the restaurants and cafes. And of course enjoy a well deserved swim at the beach in Monterosso at the end of your day.

An alternate option is to explore the Cinque Terre by boat on a day trip from Le Spezia. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, admiring the views and exploring the villages on foot on this full day eight hour tour .

Where to Stay in La Spezia

Budget – Hotel Birillo

Mid-Range – Monteverdi Resort

Luxury – Poet Hotel

Day 10 to 12 – Milan

Train: Le Spezia to Milan – approx. 3-3.5 hours with around 10 direct departures each day. Take an early morning train from Le Spezia to maximise your time in Milan.

Milan is often overlooked by visitors to Italy in favour of visiting some of the more historic cities and regions. But this shouldn’t be the case. It’s a city full of beautiful Renaissance architecture, incredible cathedrals, world class works of art and it is one of the fashion capitals of the world. It’s also the perfect place to base yourself for day trips to the Italian Lakes and Southern Alps region.

What to See & Do in Milan

Duomo of Milan – The largest gothic cathedral in the world can be found right in the centre of Milan. Construction began in 1386 taking 500 years to complete. It’s an impressive sight both inside and out plus it offers a great vantage point from the roof (get your roof top entry tickets here to avoid the queues).

Santa Maria delle Grazie – Home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper fresco. If you want to see this incredible work of art it is necessary to book in advance . One option is to visit on a guided tour where you will get to see this incredible work of art with an expert.

Sforza Castle –  Situated in the centre of the city is Milan’s Castle which is home to a bunch of art museums including one containing Michelangelo’s last sculpture. Even if you don’t want to visit the museums, the castle is a great place for a stroll through the courtyards and surrounding parklands or to see the very animated fountain out the front.

La Scala Opera House – Italy’s finest opera house can be found in Milan. If you can’t afford the exuberant prices to see a show then you can enter the museum during the day on a tour ( book here to avoid missing out) to see paintings, musical instruments and get a glimpse at the stalls and backstage areas.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – This huge glass roofed shopping arcade links Duomo Square with La Scala. The stores you will find inside are mostly high end fashion brands and expensive cafes. Take a wander through to admire the roof and the mosaic tiles.

Day Trip to Lake Como – An easy 30-45 minutes train ride from Milan is spectacular Lake Como . When you get off the train and Como Nord Largo (beware, there is three train stations in Como), hop on one of the ferries that goes up and down the lake stopping at the small towns along the way and passing houses owned by Clooney and Branson just to name a few. It’s a beautiful day out with mountain peaks and sheer cliff faces towering over the lake. Hop off at the town of Bellagio, at least, and explore it’s cobblestone streets and charming stores and cafes. An alternative to the train is an organised day trip which you can book here .

Where to Stay in Milan

Budget – Hote Mignon

Mid-Range – Hotel Ritter

Luxury – Mandarin Oriental Milan

Day 13 to 14 – Venice

Train: Milan to Venice – approx. 2.5 hours with at least one direct departure each hour. Take an early morning train from Milan to optimise your time in Venice.

Italy’s sinking city, Venice , is made up of 118 islands connect by bridges and separated by canals, and is literally sinking into the marshy ground it was built on. It’s a city renowned for it’s beauty, architecture and artworks and is best experienced without a map, getting lost in the maze of cobblestone streets and diverse neighborhoods .

What to See & Do in Venice

Piazza San Marco – The city’s largest square and main meeting place. It is surrounded by cafes, shops, museums and some of the city’s best architecture. Beware of the very tame pigeons!

Basilica San Marco – Located in Piazza San Marco, this basilica is one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in the city. Inside you will find incredible mosaics and paintings by some of the areas best artists. This ticket will give you direct access to the Basilica and the opportunity to take in the incredible views from the Terrace.

The Grand Canal – This is the main and largest canal that snakes it way through the centre of the main island. It’s always busy with boats and barges running up and down carrying goods and people from dock to dock. A great way to do a quick sightseeing tour is by jumping on a vaporetto (Venice’s public transport) at one end and hopping off at the other.

Doge’s Palace – Once the residence of Venetian leaders, now a museum where you can get a glimpse at some of the rooms used in it’s day including stately reception rooms, offices, living quarters, prison cells and torture chambers. This reserved entry ticket will allow you to skip the queues on entry.

Rialto Bridge – This ornamental stone bridge spans the Grand Canal and is the most popular of Venice’s bridges. It’s a very lively spot where you will find shops and markets lining the bridge.

Take a Gondola Ride – While prices for a private gondola ride are close to €100.00 these days, to me, it is still worth the cost for this quintessential Venetian experience. If your lucky to get a chatty gondolier, he will entertain you with stories and maybe even serenade you as you punt along the canals. Most gondola’s seat 6-8 people, so sharing with others is a great way to save money. Booking ahead here will ensure you don’t miss this must do Venice experience.

Explore the Islands – Just a short boat ride away from the main island of Venice are a number of popular islands you can explore. Murano is know for it glass makers, Burano it’s canals lined with coloured houses and lace making and Lido is lined with beaches, restaurants and shopping. You can reach all of these islands from the ferry terminal near Piazza San Marco or you could join a  guided tour to see it all with a local!

Where to Stay in Venice

Budget – Hotel ai do Mori

Mid-Range – Hotel Bel Sito e Berlino

Luxury – Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Read More About Europe

First Timers One Month Europe Itinerary

Have More or Less Time?

There are so many more hidden gems in Italy outside of what I have mentioned above. If you have more than two weeks in Italy then you can extend your stay in two ways. Firstly, you could allocate additional time to some of the places I mentioned above allowing you to go at a more relaxed pace and see more in each destination. Alternatively, why not add a destination or two to your Italy train itinerary. Here are a few suggestions:

• Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
• The Dolomites

Finally, if you have less than two weeks to spend in Italy, check out my Italy 10 Day Itinerary . You’ll get to see the highlights of this trip in a few less days.

A few things to note:

• Flying into one city and out of another will save you time rather than having to double back to your original destination to fly home. The way airlines work in terms of pricing these day you should not be penalised for doing this.
• Pack light. A backpack or light weight soft case is a good option as it makes getting on an off trains much easier.
• Discounts are available on train tickets when traveling in groups of 2 or more, as a family unit, or for people aged under 26. Prices for point to point tickets above are averaged and may be cheaper or more expensive depending on how far in advance you book and whether there is a sale on at the time.

Over to you!

What is your favourite part of this Italy by train itinerary or where are you most keen to visit?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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302 thoughts on “The Best of Italy by Train: A Two Week Itinerary”

I love Italian trains- the choice between high speed and cheaper local trains make it the perfect way to see the country! I haven’t been to Cinque terre yet but it’s on my list- all the little towns look so gorgeous.

Totally agree Hannah. Hope you get to visit Cinque Terre soon.

I am traveling Italy in august. Is it good time to travel?

Hi Ali! August is when i visited Italy and found it to be a great time of year. It can be quite hot though but that also means really great weather. Dont hesitste to contact me if you have any more questions about your exciting trip!

Thank you Jen for your prompt reply.

I am flying into Venice and Leaving out from Rome, Is it a good Idea?

My pleasure Ali. Yes that sounds like a very time effective way to go. Saves you from having to backtrack to your starting point. What cities, towns or regions are you planning to visit?

Hi, I need some help planning my italy itinerary. I found cheap tickets to naples and going back to the us from naples. I know there will be back tracking, but wanted to know if this was ok. I have about 12 days (including travel) in September. Any advise would help.

Hey Rakesh, Backtracking won’t be a problem as Italy is relatively small so doing a loop would be fine. I’d be happy to help you put together an itinerary that would suit you. Email me what you have so far and we can go from there. [email protected] Cheers Jen

hi Jen, Great itenary!! We are a family of 3 and visiting italy for 12 nights in June first fortnight. Flying into rome and out of venice Any suggests on itenary – rome 3 days Florence 2 days Venice 2 days What else we can do in 4 days ..?

Hi Meenu, Glad you like the itinerary. I would suggest for 12 days, following the same itinerary I have suggested above except remove Assisi and this will give you 12 days. Hope you have a great time! Cheers Jen

Great itinerary tips! I feel the same way about the train – it my favorite mode of transportation in Italy (and Europe).

Thanks Elena. The only way to train in Europe I think.

Great itinerary! We took a train through Italy on a similar route back in 2007 and it was one of the best experiences – great way to get around the country. Though we missed Assisi so may have to get back!

Thanks Megan. I think visiting Assisi is a definitely a good excuse to go back to Italy.

Hi Jen! Are you still giving advice on Italy Itineraries?

Hi Deb, Feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to advise. Cheers Jen

This is awesome! I love the way this post is crafted – it’s really nice and easy to read for it being a lengthy post full of information. The galleries of images is a nice break from text, as are the headings. Perfect summary here!

Thanks Alli, appreciate your feedback.

I love trains! They were my favorite way to get around Asia. I definitely miss cheap, efficient transportation now that I’m back in the States.

Me too except I’m in Australia. Not much in the way if cheap and reliable transport here.

Hello Jen- I’m interested in a well priced package that spends 3 days in Milan, 3 in cinque terre… I’d like to extend the trip and spend some days in the Tuscany region would this be possible if we are leaving from Milan or is it too out of the way?… I would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks, Lis

Absolutely not! Italy is a reasonably small country and with the addition of high speed trains, it makes it easy to get around quickly. I would suggest at least 3 days in Tuscany, maybe basing yourself in Florence and then taking a day trip to the other towns and the countryside.

OH this sounds so lovely right about now! Great tips for my someday trip to Italy! 🙂 -Alexandra

Simply Alexandra: My Favorite Things

Thanks Alexandra. Hopefully someday comes soon for you!

I love the way you display your pics on your blog! I agree with you on flying in into one city and flying out of another, it saves a lot of unnecessary traveling. Thank God for low-budget airlines 🙂

Thanks so much Els. Budget airlines are so great yet so bad all at the same time!

Great itinerary! Although I could spend months in Italy and not run out of things to do, this would be a great trip for a first time visit with the limited time most of us had. And I loved traveling Italy by train – it was so easy and the views were amazing!

Thanks Amy. I agree, Italy offers infinite options for travellers an using there trains just makes it easier.

I love Rome, but I think the Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. We stayed in Vernazza and took the train and hiked to the other towns. We ate some of the best food in Vernazza too. Such a beautiful area.

It certainly is Katherine. I remember eating really fresh seafood and pasta.

Hello We are planning our trip to Cinque and I’m not sure what would be the best route coming from Venice and thinking about spending a day in Florence and then to Cinque… what do you suggest? and also is La Spezia the stop for Cinque Terre? and how would we get into Vernazza from the station? Thank you so much!

Hey Quena, Just one day in Florence won’t give you much time when you factor in the 3-4 hours it will take you travelling to and from it on the trains. I’d suggest giving it at least one night if not more. La Spezia is the largest town close to Cinque Terre and is known as the gateway to the region. You can choose to stay there and day trip along the coast or transit through there to access the train that runs along the Cinque Terre. As for getting into Vernazza, just take the train from La Spezia and the station is right in the town. When you get off, everything is less than a few minutes walk away. Hope this helps and that you enjoy this beautiful part of Italy. Cheers Jen

This is such a lovely post. I think I can plan my entire trip based on the details shared here. Thank you so much 🙂

That is great to hear Deepti. Hope you enjoy your trip!

Indeed a great itinerary and comes very handy for people who are venturing into Europe travelling for first time. I loved trenitalia trains and used them during my travels in Italy way back in 2009. They are the best way to see Italy. We did not see a lot of the places, but mostly explored the iconic cities only. Would love to go back there and explore Tuscany, Sicily, Assisi and the Amalfi coast.

Thanks Anu! I love the trains in Italy and Europe. Hope you get to visit some other parts of Italy soon!

Ughh all your Italy posts are giving me major travel envy! 😀 This is such a useful guide. I would love to go to Milan!

Thanks Jessica! Just writing them made me want to go back.

I love this itinerary. Italy is definitely on my bucket list.

Thanks Ashley. Hope you get to visit Italy soon.

We are hoping to travel to Rome for 3 nights then take a train to Florence for 2nights then head to Pisa for the morning on the way to la spezia. I have read on other websites that luggage can be stored at Pisa centrale train station. Do you recommend this? We just want to see the tower before we head to Cinque Terre later that day. We will be travelling with our 2 boys (10 & 13). We also planned to buy our tickets at the stations as we weren’t sure what times we wanted to travel. Do you recommend this in September or is it best to book ahead?

Hi Melissa,

Yes, there is a luggage storage option at Pisa Centrale Station where you can store your bags for an hourly fee. Another option which would cause you less hassle is having your bags transferred from Florence direct to La Spezia. With two teenage boys, this may be a better option.

You shouldn’t have any problems buying your tickets at the stations on the day as it is the shoulder season meaning it shouldn’t be too busy. Try not to travel during morning and evening peak times otherwise you may find yourself standing all the way. Mind you they are only short journies.

I hope you and your family have an amazing time and please let me know if you have any more questions and report back about your trip when you return, I’d love to hear all about it.

Thank you Jen,

That’s something I didn’t know about. I will definitely look into it.

Great advice

My pleasure Melissa. If you have anymore questions don’t hesitate to ask. Happy planning and travels!

I like This website.It is very helpful website.Really very good

Thank you Alina.

What a helpful blog! Gosh, I am so lazy in comparison when it comes to planning. I will be back for some more tips for sure. Cheers,

Thanks Jenn! Glad I could be of help to you.

I’m planning a 2 week trip around Italy in February and can’t tell you how much this helped me! It’s so hard planning a trip for such a short amount of time with oh so many things to do haha

I was wondering if you have been down to the south of Italy at all? A place called Lecce? I have a friend who lives there so it’ll be visiting her and wondering any recommendations you might have for that area? (if you have been)

Also with the low budget airlines mentioned, are there any good ones you recommend?

Thanks Kirstie. I’m so glad that this post has helped you. I have never been any further south than Sorrento unfortunately so I can’t really provide you with any recommendations for Lecce. Lonely Planet http://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/puglia/lecce/things-to-do has a good guide on things to see in Lecce you can check out.

As for budget airlines, they are all much the same. If you are flying from the UK or within Europe flight time is short so it’s easy to make to with little leg room and slightly uncomfortable seats. My tip is to pick the airline that offers you the cheapest price with flight arrival and departure times that are convenience to you.

Feel free to email me if you have any more questions. Happy travels!

Great thankyou heaps again!

Jen & Kirstie I was about to comment that an itinerary of Italy that doesn’t go south of Rome is very much a glass half empty. travelling in the south is harder – it is poorer and the infrastructure isn’t as good but for many it is more Italian – more passionate, more crazy and more intense. And Lecce is was of the jewels of Italy not to be missed. There are many others in the south and Sicily well that might just be the best of the best!

Thanks Simon. This itinerary is purely based on my experience. I would love to one day explore further south.

This is awesome! We are meeting family in Italy in March for 10 days and this itinerary will help tremendously. 🙂

Glad I could help Sarah. Happy travel in Italy!

This is a great itinerary that includes a lot of wonderful spots of Italy, it is a bit fast pace for me but still lovely. Train travel is one of my favourite, but there might be a cheaper way to move around the country, it’s car-sharing. We’ve been using it a lot recently but it means being a bit more flexible which it might not necessary go with a thigh schedule.

Thanks for the tips.

Hi Jen I came across your forum and thought I’d pick your brains. My hubby n I are heading to Europe thus year middle of August and have just booked a cruise out if Athens for 10 nights ending in Venice then off to lake Como for 4 nights THEN what do you suggest for the next 3 weeks before heading back to Aust. ( never been to Europe) would like Rome , Switzerland , Paris. Ideas appreciated from anyone and also DONT WANT IT RUSHED …… Cheers

Hi Cheryl! What an exciting trip you have planned. Id be happy to pass on some advise and will send you an email with a few suggestions shortly.

Hi Jen ! I’m traveling to Italy this June with my family starting from Venice and my return flight is from Rome we have 2 weeks can u please let me know which places to go after Venice and what traveling method should we use thx.

Hey Sally! Thanks for stopping by. You trip is going to be amazing. Italy is auch an incredible country. I suugest 3 nights in Venice to really soak it up then onto florence for another 2-3 nights. From there you can do a day trip to Tuscany which is just lovely. Back track a little to Cinque Terre to walk or take the train to the five towns. You’ll need 2 nights there staying in either Le Spezia or one of the five towns depending on your budget. Finish up in Rome for 5 nights. There is heapd to see in Rome and you can take a few nice day trips from there to Orvieto and/or Assisi. I suggest you do all of this by train with maybe the odd day trip tour thrown in. Trains are incredibly easy to use in Europe and drop you right in the heart of each city so its super convenient too. Feel free to drop me an email with any other questions you might have. Im move than happy to help. Happy travels!

Hi Jen, your itinerary to see the best of Italy in 2 weeks is very helpful. My husband and I are planning a trip to Italy this April for 2 weeks to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. We were thinking of visiting Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome, Naples and Capri islands. But your suggestion of seeing Cinque Terre is very interesting. We will be travelling from India (Bangalore). Is April a good time to visit Italy? Any more suggestions about the places we could cover in 2 weeks?

HI Gayathri. Congratulations on the anniversary, A visit to Italy is a really nice way to celebrate. Your itinerary sounds great and April will be a really nice time as the weather will be warming up but not too hot and you should get lots of sunshine. My only suggestion would be maybe staying in Sorrento rather than Naples. I don’t know if there was something specific you wanted to see in Naples but from Sorrento you can easily get to Capri as well as Pompeii and the incredible Amalfi coast which is my favourite place in Italy. Happy planning and feel free to email me if you have any more questions. [email protected]

Jen, thank you so much. I would surely like to visit the Amalfi coast, but my only constraint is time. Your advice to go to Sorrento and then to Capri is well taken. I would include Pompeii if I can make it a day trip from Sorrento, is it possible? Thank you. Gayathri.

My pleasure Gayathri. From Sorrento it is an easy to do half or full day trips to Pompeii, Capri and Amalfi Coast. Viator is a great website for finding tours. Here is a link to my affiliate page http://www.partner.viator.com/en/14046/ Feel free to email me [email protected] if you want more help picking tours or with any other travel planning questions and I’ll be happy to help!

Jen, thank you so much. How safe is Rome and South Italy from your experience? I am getting a lot of reports that pick-pocketing and purse snatching are rampant, especially on trains.

Thanks again for all the information.

Hi Gayathri, Petty crime like pick-pocketing etc can happen anywhere in the world, and Italy is no exception. Where there is tourists there is petty crime. It is completely unavoidable and not something you should be worried about. My advise is to never carry too much cash or valuable items with you and make sure you know where your belongings are at all times. Never put your wallet in your back pocket. On the trains keep your bags close or within eye sight. There are racks above the seat that will fit large packs (we put 15kg, 60L packs up there no worries) and racks at the ends of the carriages for larger bags. I really hope this assures you that there is nothing to be concerned about and just enjoy your trip. Cheers Jen

Hi Jen, We are back from our two week trip to Italy and we had a wonderful time. Your advice and itinerary were very helpful. Thank you so much. We started from Venice, went to Sienna and then to Florence, then Rome. From Rome we went to Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius too. The weather was excellent throughout. I took your advice and booked the tours on Viator – they were really good. Thanks once again. Gayathri.

Oh I am so glad to hear that you had a great time Gayathri and that my itinerary and advise was helpful. Feel free to get in touch anytime when planning your next adventure!

Such great guide! I love it =) We have only been in Rome and then the Marche region.. This opened up my eyes for the rest of Italy, love this country!

Thanks Jessica. Hope you get to explore more of this wonderful country soon.

Do you have any recommendations for a driver for hire for a family of 6? We plan on being in Tuscany as part of our trip in early August.

Hi Steve This isn’t something I have personal experience with but I can certainly ask around with some other travel bloggers and see if I can get a recommendation for you. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. Cheers

Excellent, thank you.

Hi Steve, One of my fellow traveller’s has come through for you. She has used Alessandro twice now and he comes highly recommended. You can find his Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/alessandrocammilliwinetours?fref=ts Hope this help. Cheers Jen

Thank you for the great tips! I will be traveling with my family to Italy for 2 weeks in December 2015. We are 8 people. I would like to follow your suggested itinerary; however, is it also doable in December (winter time)? Also, we will arrive in Rome and have to fly out of Rome too. Thanks in advance for the help!

Hi Lala, Sounds like your going to have an amazing family vacation. Because of Italy’s Mediterranean location it doesn’t get as cold as some other parts of Europe however the can still get pretty chilly in the north of the country around the Alps. This shouldn’t cause you any problems travelling in December. In fact I imagine it will be much quieter than in summer. As for finishing up in Rome that it easy. All you have to do is take the train back to Rome when your finished in Venice. The journey is about 3 hours 45 minutes and there are services about once an hour with no changes required. I hope this has been of help and do let me know if you have any more questions. Happy planning and travels. Cheers

How long is the train from Rome to Cinque Terre? Both by slow and express train, also what would be the prices for both options?

Hi Keven, The fastest way to get from Rome to Cinque Terre is by direct train to Le Spezia and then change to a local train to the towns along the Cinque Terre. This will take you around 4-4.5 hours. The slower way would be to make an additional change in Florence. The journey for this would be around 1 hour more. In terms of prices, this is depend greatly on the time of the year, day of the week and what class you wish to travel in. You can find links under the Train Tickets section above to my suggested ticketing agents relevant to your home country. Feel free to email me at [email protected] if you have any more planning questions and I’ll be happy to help. Happy travels. Cheers Jen

I came across your forum and found it great helpful. we couple are planning to travel italy for 2 weeks in dec 2015. we wanted to visit Rome , naples (Pompei, sorronto and Amalfi) Florance, Pisa and Milan and venice and if posible to Rimini as well. ( but i dont think we have enough time for rimini). our plan is to travel by train to these places. we are from melbourne and our starting point is to Rome and return filght from Venice. Now my concern is if we should go for point to point train tickets or for a rail pass. As far to understood rail pass doesnt do reservation and not sutiable for this trip. What you do recon ? Any suggestion on my plan ? can i plan somthing better ? And also is there any necessary to book a car or can we manage all places by train ? This is our first trip to italy for both of us and we are very much excited about our trip :).. Cheers, Vandhana.

Hi Vandhana Your trip sounds really exciting! I think your itinerary is perfect but you may struggle to fit in Rimini. My suggestion would be to spend more quality time in a few places rather than trying to fit in as many as possible. And arriving in Rome and departing Venice is a very smart thing to do saving you time and money having to double back to your starting point at the end of the trip. With your train tickets you do have two options. Point to point and a pass. Before you book either option make sure you check the prices as a pass is not always cheapest. It depends greatly on how many segments you travel and what type of trains you travel on. Fast, express trains that require reservations cost more. Seat reservations can be made on top of your pass and cost extra. I highly recommend checking out the RailPlus website for more details on rail tickets. Their customer service team are extremely helpful with answering questions and assisting you with making bookings and seat reservations. I use them when I travel by train. I definitely think the train is the way to go. If you had a car you would likely find it a hassle to park in just about every place your visiting and once your in a city for a few days a car is useless as public transport in Italy is efficient. Please don’t hesitate to email me [email protected] if you have any more questions or just want to bounce ideas off me. Happy travels and planning! Cheers Jen

Thank you Jen. I will check the Railplus website for the train details and take ur advice to spend quality time in few places rather than rushing up. Thank you for great tips 🙂

Good luck and feel free to contact me at any time with questions.

Jen, this post is excellent! Easy to follow and rich with informations! Your itinerary is really good as well: you touch some within the best places to see in Italy. I’m hope you had a good time and that you will be back.

Thank you so much for taking the time to provide me with those lovely comments Carlotta. I love Italy and do very much hope to visit there again someday.

Hi Jen I would like to train travel Italy in June. Would I be able to find accommodation each day as I travel or do you think that would be difficult? Julie

Hi Julie, It is difficult to say for June as it is coming into peak season. I believe you would have more chance in June than say July or August (peak season). What you could try is booking online a few days in advance when you have more of an idea of what your plans are. This will most certainly guarantee you to find something. Also try to avoid being in places when there are events or festivals happening. Accommodation disappears months in advance when things are going on. Happy planning! Cheers Jen

my wife and I will be staying with family in Tuscany for a week. Would it be possible to do some of these as day trips from tuscany?

We will be there mid september

Absolutely, getting to places like Florence, Siena, Pisa and Lucca (just to name a few) are really easy from Tuscany for day trips. For places further afield you could still do it in a day but in my opinion it wouldn’t be worth it. You could try some overnight trips if you did want to travel outside of Tuscany. Happy travels.

Hi Jen, thank you for this amazing write up 🙂

My friend and I are travelling Italy in mid-May onwards for 2 weeks, and we are so excited, we don’t quite know where to start! Likely to have our tickets in and out of Rome, and I am so happy to have seen this site, sheds a lot of light 🙂

Question though, how many days in advance should we be booking our train tickets? Is purchasing on the go advisable though, or should we book months in advance (given that its mid-March now)

Hey Alyssa. Thanks for getting in touch. Just got your email and I’ve just replied.

Thank you for such wonderful information! Planning a two week Italy/Paris trip, post high-school graduation with my daughter, flying into Athens and flying out of Paris. As we plan to spend most of our time in Italy, this itinerary is perfect — thank you! two general questions: (a)do you have any thoughts/suggestions on train travel from Italy to Paris? (b) Is there a particular site you recommend for lodging information in Italy? Thank you again for taking the time to post all this wonderful information – it’s truly invaluable to those of us visiting a country for the first time.

HI Elli, Sounds like a great way to celebrate your daughters graduation. From Milan in Northern Italy there is a direct overnight train that you can get to Paris which takes around 10 hours. You’ve got the option of doing the journey in an ordinary chair or having a sleep cabin. There are both private and shared cabins onboard. From anywhere else in Italy you are looking at 14 hours at least with multiple changes required. Flying might be the best option here. As for booking sites, this will depend entirely on where you are from as each country has its own agencies. If you are in Australia I recommend RailPlus.com.au. Accommodation will depend entirely on what your budget and style is. If you are after cheap then you can find hostels on HostelWorld.com. Most hostels are more than dorms and offer private rooms with private bathrooms. You get lots of inclusions, with some even offering free wi-fi which you would usually have to pay a hefty fee for in ordinary hotels. Feel free to email me any time with more questions or just to run any ideas you have by me. Cheers Jen

Jen, this is incredible! I’ve been procrastinating planning my trip because I was just too overwhelmed. Your itinerary is so incredibly helpful, I feel as if I have an idea of what I’ll be doing now. Can’t thank you enough!

Can I ask your expert opinion? You mentioned above the Amalfi Coast was your favorite however, this will be my first trip to Italy. Do you recommend hitting the tourist sites or sacrificing some to tour the Amalfi Coast? I’ll have 2 weeks in early September. I would love to fly into Milan to Venice, La Spezia, Florence, Tuscany, Rome – just like you suggest. Is it much trouble to reach Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast? Do you think I’ll be able to manage it all? I’ll be flying out of Rome. Or I can swap and begin in Rome and fly from Milan…

Thank you so much!

So glad to help Lindsey! It is pretty simple to get from Rome to Sorrento and 1-2 nights there would be enough for you to see the Amalfi Coast on a ferry for the day. If you love stunning coastline and relaxed villages then you will love Amalfi. While Milan is nice, Italy has so much more to offer. My advise would be to skip it and allow yourself more time to get to Amalfi or spend more time in Rome, Venice or Florence. While it might be a little hectic fitting in Rome, Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre and Amalfi, it is most certainly doable with enough time to see the main sights and a few off the beaten path ones as well. Feel free to email me any time if you want to chat further. [email protected] Cheers Jen

Great itinerary tips here! I’m planning for a trip to Italy this August with my family and am definitely coming back to your page when I really start planning for it! A quick question for now, my brother is a wheelchair user. Will it be convenient for him to take trains in Italy? Any other tips regarding the accessibility of Italy? Thanks in advance! 🙂

Hi Joyce. Thanks for your kind words. I have no idea about travelling in a wheelechair but a good friend of mine does. I’ve messaged him and will let you know if he can help soon. Cheers Jen

This is amazing, thank you for the great itinerary! My wife and I are going on a 2-week vacation in Italy this August (our first time in Europe too). So this is such a big help, we’re so excited! Our itinerary begins with 4 nights in Venice, 4 nights in Florence, and capped off with 5 nights in Cinque Terre (Riomaggiore).

We plan to visit the museums/galleries, churches/historical sites, and lots of walking around during our stay in Venice and Florence. We’d book ourselves a half-day Chianti wine tour as well. But after that, we’d just relax by the sea and absorb as much of the coastal villages during our loooooong stay in Cinque Terre.

We haven’t reserved rooms nor bought plane tickets yet so our plan is completely flexible as of this moment. But are we staying at each city too long? Should we insert another city in our plan? What do you think?

So glad you found this helpful. Your itinerary sounds really great and nice an relaxing. If you wanted to fit one more place in then I would suggest Rome. You could take 2 nights from Cinque Terre and one each from Venice and Florence to do 4 nights in Rome. If you decide to do this I suggest flying into Venice and out of Rome to avoid having to back track. If you want a really relaxed trip with lots of time to just chill then I think what you have already is just perfect.

If you’re looking for places to stay I have just created a new page that is full of my recommendations based on my experience. You’ll find it here https://thetrustedtraveller.com/where-to-stay/ .

Feel free to email me at [email protected] if you have any follow up questions or want to run anything by me. I’m always happy to help!

Hi there–

I have the age old question of luggage. I’m traveling in Italy for about 3 and a half weeks this summer with my mom. I’ll be in Milan, Tuscany, Florence, Cinque Terre, Rome, Naples. I always debate whether or not to take a bag with wheels or a backpack. We will be traveling internally exclusively by train. Do you still recommend a backpack over a bag with wheels? Lost of cobbled streets? Stairs with no alternative but to carry bag? I’d hate to be schlepping a bag on my shoulders the whole trip but I will if it seems that it is easier than struggling with a rolley bag.

I am more partial to a backpack for trips where I will be moving from place to place so that is what I would suggest for your trip (which sounds great BTW). There are also bags that are backpacks but also have wheels which give you the freedom to do both, however as you can image the bag weight alone is quite heavy without all over your stuff in it.

If you do go with a backpack I have a few tips for taking some of the weight off your shoulders. – Pack smaller bottles of toiletries with just enough in them to last your whole trip. – Carefully consider what items of clothing you pack ensuring that each item goes with at least two others and can be used for multiple occasions. – Consider investing in some quick dry clothing that you can wash in the hotel sink. – As much as we love out electronic devices these days, avoid taking too many as each one is extra weight you have to carry.

I hope you have a really great time in Italy.

Thank you so much for such an informative article, it’s a life saver for first time visitors to Italy like us. We are planning a trip either beginning of August or mid September (still trying to decide, since we don’t like hot wheater) for about two weeks, and your itinerary sounds great, except that we would love to spend a couple of days on a beach. Which beaches would you say are must see in Italy and how would you change your itinerary to make this happen? Thank you in advance!

I am so glad this itinerary has helped you.

Firstly if you don’t like the heat I would recommend September over August. We were in Italy in August and it was very hot.

I have a few suggestions for you to spend a couple of days on the beach. You could add a few additional days in Cinque Terre. The town, Monterosso, has a lovely beach. Or from Rome you could travel south to the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento where you could stay a few days and enjoy the villages with nice beaches. Both of these options could be done within the two weeks with a few adjustments to the rest of the itinerary.

Alternatively, if you have some additional time, I have heard only great things about Sicily, which would require a bit more effort to get to, but you’d be rewards with some of Italy’s best beaches.

Good luck with you trip planning and please don’t hesitate to let me know if you have any more questions as I am always happy to chat travel!.

I am travelling with my wife and two kids 6 & 12 on june 8th for 2 weeks. I will be flying into venice and leaving out from Rome. Any thoughts how do I plan for my trip?

Hi Ajoo, You kids must be excited for the trip! This itinerary is a great place for you to start as it is two week exactly and you could do it in reverse order, starting in Venice, ending in Rome. I’d be happy to answer any more specific questions you have as you go about your planning. Feel free to email me [email protected] at any time. All the best with your planning. Jen

Nicely done—great descriptions and concisely presented. I’m using this as my template for a trip in September.

Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment Don. I am so glad that you have found this post useful. All the best with your travel planning.

can you tell me the total cost of 2 weeks trip for Italy for couple?

Hi Attique, The cost would vary depending on the level of comfort you’d prefer for accommodation, things you’d like to see and do and what sort of places you’d like to eat at. I’d be happy to discuss this further with you if you’d like to email me [email protected] and I with a few more details I could help you out with an overall cost. Cheers Jen

I am looking to take my family of 5 to Italy in March 2016. We will be there for approximately 10-11 days depending on the flights we get. It will be over Easter, so I am not sure if it would be worth the experience to be in Rome/Vatican City then, or to avoid it. Also, we would like to hit Rome, Naples, Florence, and Venice. What is the best way to do this, and is it any better flying into Venice and traveling south or vice versa Rome and head north.

Hi Matt! I think arriving at either Rome, Venice or Naples and leaving from the opposite will be your best bet and I don’t think it will matter which direction you go (north to south or south to north) unless there is something specific you want to see and do on a specific day. As for being in Rome for Easter, I personally haven’t been there over the Easter break but know people who have and they very much enjoyed the experience of seeing the Pope on his Easter parade through the city. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, then I would avoid Rome for the Easter weekend. Feel free to email me anytime if you have any more travel planning queries and I’ll be more than happy to help. [email protected] Cheers Jen

So excited to find this itinerary!! Planning a trip for our 30th wedding anniversary. We’ve been to Venice so may just cut that part out. Do you feel this itinerary does allow for some ‘down’ time to relax? Or should I add a day or two? Also, what would be a good amount to budget for lodging and food each day? Not looking for anything fancy. Just clean. Thanks so much!!!!

Hi Tina, I’m so glad this itinerary is useful to you and congratulations on the big anniversary. I hope you have a wonderful trip. To answer your questions I’d say if you cut out Venice as you said, this would give you more down time in other places. Maybe add an additional night or two in the Cinque Terre region or add a few nights stay outside of Florence in Tuscany. Both are regions you can really relax and get away from the crowds for a bit. As for a budget for accommodation and food, this will depend entirely on your personal preferences and standards. You can check out my Where to Stay page https://thetrustedtraveller.com/where-to-stay/ for the places I suggest and this will be a good starting off point for you. Feel free to email me ( [email protected] ) if you want to chat further about this and I can guide you in the right direction for your budget. All the best. Cheers Jen

This is awesome!! Thanks so much for this. I would have done an organised tour (which I really didn’t want to do) if not for this information. I’m going to be doing a three and a half month trip to Europe next year starting in London flying from Sydney on April 9th, and Italy will make up 18 nights of my trip. I’m going to be doing lots of big cities, and was thinking that while I’m in Italy I might try staying in some smaller places. I don’t really want to visit Milan, but I was going to as it seemed convenient to follow your logical route and because I want to go to Lake Como. I was given some advice that it might make more sense to actually stay in Lake Como instead of Milan, and I found what looks like a great hostel in Mennagio. What do you think of this? Also I’m considering actually staying at one of the Cinque Terre towns, instead of La Spezia which you suggested. I realise I’d need to catch a train to La Spezia then a small regional one into CT. I found again what looks to be a good hostel in Manarola. Should I take a night off Florence or Rome to stay the night in Assisi or is it possible to stop on the way through?

This is my intended route for Italy starting from mid May 2016, flying in from Nice, and flying from Rome to Athens to continue my trip. The number is the nights I will stay in one place for and brackets is transport to the next place. 3 – Venice (train) (stop at Verona on the way) (day trip with Italy on a Budget to the islands) 2 –Mennagio (Lake Como) (instead of Milan) (train) to La Spezia then regional train to CT 2 – Manarola (Cinque Terre) – (train) 42 total nights 4 – Florence (day trip to Pisa, Siena, Grapes Tuscany tour by Italy on a budget to Tuscany) stop in Assisi on the way (train) 4 – Rome 3 – Italian Adventure with Italy on a Budget- Rome to Naples, Sorrento, Capri, Amalfi and Rome

Hey Brooke! What an adventure you are going to have next year. It all sounds really great. If you want to get out of the big cities and spend some more time in the smaller towns then I would definitely agree with the advise that you have been given in regard to staying in Lake Como rather than Milan and staying in Manarola rather than La Spezia. Milan, while a nice city, is really just another big Italian city and if your only reason to go there is to visit Lake Como then definitely go with the Lake Como option instead. Your itinerary sounds good and you are definitely going to be seeing lots of the country, making the most of your time with day trips. For Assisi, I would recommend trying to fit that in on the way through rather than loosing a night in Rome or FLorence. It is a really nice little town but you can quite easily see its highlights in a few hours. Good luck with putting together the rest of your trip and please do not hesitate to email me ( [email protected] ) at any time if you have any more questions or just want to bonce ideas off me. Cheers Jen

Thanks heaps Jen!! I’m so excited, this will be my first trip solo, and first time to Europe. and this plan is the result of 2 months of research (I mean for my whole trip). I think I’ve nearly got my whole trip route planned now, and I can focus on choosing places to stay, putting together ideas for what I want to do when I’m in each place (I don’t want to waste time doing this when I’m away so I plan on having a big numbered list to choose from which will be flexible to take on board advise from other travelers and locals when I am there) and I’m waiting on the release dates for tours next year. Have you had any experience with Italy on a Budget? All the reviews on Tripadvisor look great. Do you think starting in Venice in mid May would be a good time to go? I might take you up on that offer and email you my whole itinerary, but I understand you would be really busy.

Thanks for all your help

Thanks you for posting this blog myself and my partner are going to follow it to a t, the only difference is we want to spend two night in Amalfi Coast but not sure what part we don’t won’t to go too far south could you recommend somewhere please.

Thanks, Dee

Hey Dee, Glad the itinerary is useful for you. You have two options for the Amalfi Coast. Stay in the town of Sorrento and then take a day trip along the Amalfi Coast either by boat (my preference) or by bus. You can easily see the coast and stop in the towns of Amalfi and Positano on a day trip. Or you can stay on the coast itself in either Amalfi or Positano. This option would be a little more expensive but give you the freedom to explore a little more. Feel free to email me if you’d like to discuss more. Cheers Jen

I m in love with the way you have written out the itinerary.. m travelling with my family including my 6 yr old to Italy for 12 days in August. Currently we have 4 nights in rome, 2 nights in la spezia to visit cinque terre, 4 nights in florence and 2 nights in venice. thereafter we continue for a week to switzerland. I have a few questions, what is the best way to see rome, i wanted to plan some day trips, but the guided tours seem too expensive. Is there another option? Also we want to visit Naples/ Amalfi coast what would be the best way to do this? Lastly i know buying point to point train tickets would be cheaper in italy, but since we are going to switzerland after, would having a eurorail global pass make sense? thanks for your help

Hey Nimeesha, Thank you for your kind words about my itinerary. I am so glad that you have made the choice to travel to Italy and Switzerland as they are both really beautiful countries with lots to see and do. You itinerary sounds great so far. Rome is an easy city to get around on the metro and a lot of the sights are easy to walk to from one another. Alternatively the open top hop-on-hop-off bus is a cheaper than taking a city tour and offers a good route through the city allowing you to hop on and off as many times as you like over the 1, 2 or 3 days. You can find more info about that here http://www.partner.viator.com/en/14046/tours/Rome/Rome-Hop-On-Hop-Off-Sightseeing-Tour/d511-6980ROME If you have the time, you can add an additional 2 nights to your trip to explore the Amalfi Coast and Naples area. You can take a train from Rome to Naples, change to a local service which will take you to Sorrento, a nice place to base yourself for exploring the region. From Sorrento you can do boat trips along the coast stopping in the towns of Amalfi and Positano. You can also make a stop on the train to/from Sorrento to explore Pompeii for an hour or two. For your tickets, it will depend entirely on how many segments (travel days) you will be doing in total. If you use the link under tickets in this post you can compare the cost of a pass that will cover all your segments with the cost of purchasing point to point tickets. Don’t forget to factor in seat reservations for both options if you want a reserved seat. I hope this has been of assistance and please feel free to email me ( [email protected] ) should you have any follow up questions or want to run anything by me. I am always happy to hear from fellow travels. Cheers Jen

Just wanted to drop a quick note and say bravo on this piece. It has helped my husband and I immensely and although we are taking a slightly different route by train, your recommendations and tips are very beneficial.

Thank-you and keep up the great work. I’ll be sure to visit your site next time we travel for great advise and tips!

Regards, Hilary

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this note Hilary. It means a lot to me to be able to help people plan their travels and I am so glad this info was helpful to you and your husband. Please don’t hesitate to contact me again in the future should you need any further tips or advice.

Hi Jen, do you think this itinerary will work for when I go in December?

Hi Zuhairi,

This itinerary can absolutely be done at any time of year. Italy is a great country to visit all year round.

All the best with your trip!

Do you know how much the trip would roughly cost for 2 teenagers aged 18 planning to go this December?

Hi Zuhairi, It will depend entirely on what type of accommodation you choose and what type of meals you are expecting to eat. Feel free to email me with more detail and I’ll be happy to help you work out a budget. [email protected] Cheers Jen

I am in the first stages of planning a trip to Paris (7-10 days) and then training through Italy. I am so pleased I came across your site. Great information to help my planning. A few questions. If we took existing suitcases would these prove too much of a hassle on trains? A backpack wouldn’t be enough room as we will be going out for dinner where husband will need to wear a suit etc. Also, I have this vision of sitting outside in a small village having a wonderful local meal and enjoying a wine looking out at the Mediterranean and relaxing. Would you suggest Cinque Terre or Amalfi coast as the best place to be able to do this. Rome is for rushing to see all the sights and I want to balance the big cities with down time in smaller places to soak up atmosphere. I wasn’t looking at Milan but Lake Como looks stunning. I would love to see some alps so would you suggest travelling through Switzerland on the way from Paris to Venice or spending time in Lake Como with its view of the alps. If Switzerland, where would you suggest to visit for 1 or 2 nights. Thank you for the great information you give out. This is going to be my go to site now.

Thank you for the kind words Lorraine. It is very nice for me to hear that this information is useful to others when planning their trips. Below are the answers to your questions. Feel free to email me ( [email protected] ) if you have anything to follow up or want to run more ideas by me. I’m always happy to help.

If you limit yourself to one suitcase each and one small carry-on type backpack or handbag, you should be fine getting on and off the trains. Try not to overload the suitcases to much so they aren’t too heavy and so that you have room to bring home anything you might like to purchase along the way.

If I had to choose between the Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast I would choose Amalfi every time. I was blown away by it’s beauty more so than Cinque Terre. However if you like hiking then Cinque Terre might be more suitable for you as you can do the walk between the towns. Both you can do exactly what you are visualising.

Lake Como is indeed beautiful and does give you the chance to see the Alps. It is easy to get around the lake on a hop-on hop-off boat and the little towns are really beautiful and nice to explore on foot.

I do really love Switzerland but think it deserves more time than just a night or two so I would go with the Lake Como option for this particular trip. However if you do really want to visit Switzerland, Interlaken is beautiful town completely surrounded by the mountains. Or Lucerne is also nice, but bigger, and is a great place for day trips up into the mountains. (A little more info on Switzerland https://thetrustedtraveller.com/travel-guides/switzerland-travel-guide/ )

Another alternative would be the town of Annecy in the French Alps right near the boarder of Switzerland. It is one of my favourite places in Europe and would fit nicely in your trip with a balance of biggers cities and smaller towns. (More info on France, including Paris and a bit on Annecy https://thetrustedtraveller.com/travel-guides/france-travel-guide/ )

Hope this has helped and please don’t hesitate to let me know if I can help you in any other way with your trip.

Thank you so much for your ideas. Annecy looks postcard perfect. That’s the trouble with Europe – so many beautiful places and so little time (and money) I will be reading all of your Europe guides to gain more for information. Working out the most cost effective versus must see way to train from Paris to Rome will take some time but I do enjoy the research. Im sure I will have more questions later but thank you for the help you have already given esp regarding the baggage and also Amalfi v Cinque Terre. I will definitely be adding in somewhere near alps – just not sure yet if French, Italian or Swiss. cheers Lorraine

I’m going Italy for two weeks next year July by myself, this itinerary helped a lot, but I’m slightly worried about the budget for the whole trip.

Hi Jettson, Glad this itinerary has helped. Your budget will depend entirely on what type of accommodation you stay in, where you choose to eat and how many paying attractions you want to visit. Feel free to email me [email protected] will more info on these things and I’ll be able to help you out with a budget.

Hi! i’m planning a trip to Switzerland and and Italy for this winter. I’ll be spending 2 nights in Zurich, 2 nights in Lucerne, and a night in Zermatt for the Switzerland leg. For the Italian leg i’ll be spending a night in Venice and 3 nights each in Milan, Florence, and Rome. Do you have any suggestions of what i should do in the winter?

Hi Trisha, Thanks for your comment. Your trip sounds so exciting. Europe in the winter is supposed to be beautiful. For Italy, much of what you can do in Summer, you can do in Winter. Here is a link to everything we have done in Italy ( https://thetrustedtraveller.com/tag/italy/ ). For northern Italy and Switzerland, winter sports like skiing, snowboard, sledging etc are all very popular and easy to arrange when you are there. If you are there around Christmas time, Europe’s Christmas markets are amazing so see if you can visit one of them maybe in Zurich or Lucerne. From Lucerne I highly recommend taking the cog train and gondola to Mt Pilatus ( http://www.pilatus.ch/en/ ). Hope this helps and that you have a great trip. If you have any specific questions please feel free to email us ( [email protected] ). Cheers Jen

This is great! I’m planning on going to Italy for my next big trip. Just out of curiosity, what was your budget approximately for this?

Thanks Natasha. Glad you have found it useful. You budget will depend entirely on the type of accommodation, food and activities you do. I’d be happy to advise you more on this through email if you’d like to email me a bit more details about these things. [email protected] . Cheers

Please add me to your mailing list.

Thanks Gillian

Thanks Gillian. I have just added you.

Hey Jen! My husband and I were hoping to visit Italy this summer– but we were looking at those guided tour groups that already plan out the hotels/travel arrangements to help prevent a planning headache. I was wondering if touring by yourself instead of with a group is the cheaper option? Plus I want to visit Cinque Terre– and I can’t find a group tour that visits there…

Overall we want to see Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre, and Rome. Wondering if you could give advice on traveling (like how many nights to stay in each place). My email is: [email protected]

Would love to hear some advice! Thanks!

Hi Anna, It would definitely be cheaper to travel independently than with a group. While I do like group tours from time to time, travelling independently gives you far more freedom. As for how many night to say in say place, this would depend on what you wanted to see and do in each place. A few rough numbers i’d suggest would be 3 nights each in Venice and Florence, 2 in Cinque Terre and 4 in Rome. Of course if you are wanting to see more than just the famous sites, i’d allow a bit more time. Hope you have a great time in Italy and feel free to email use with any follow up questions. Cheers Jen

Hey Jen, I was looking at doing a family (w 3 kids 16,20,22) trip to Italy in June over 14/15 days. Becoming too overwhelming and expensive. Thinking of hitting Venice, Florence, AmafiCoast, Latina(family 2 to 3 nts), Rome but Cinqua Terre sounds pretty cool. Do you have the perfect itinerary? Considering arr/dep Milan since a lot cheaper. Would love your help, John

Thanks John. The itinerary in this post would be my perfect itinerary for Italy. If your going to add Latina I would suggest dropping something off my itinerary as it will be pretty full on. Maybe the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre because they are quite similar. Arriving into Milan would be easy to just take the train straight over to Venice in a few hours. Hope this helps and don’t hesitate to email us with any follow up questions.

Hello Jen, I have enjoyed your blog and appreciate yours and others comments. Can you advice on this itinerary liosted below? Is train travel best? I noted a Venice to Rome train that takes over 6 hours but travels at night from 12:21 am to 6:35 am. I figured we could sleep on train and then have plenty of time to get from Rome Train Station to the Airport for 2pm flight out. What is best way to get from Rome Termini to the Airport?

We have 2 weeks but first week is dedicated to family reunion in Campbobasso and transportation is provided. I am a single father going with my 4 children age 24 to 17.

Here is a loose itinerary:

Aug 1-3 Rome Aug 4-7 Compobasso Aug 8-9 Florence Aug 10-11 Coastal area North of Rome (Cinque Terre or Pisa or both????) Aug 12-13 Venice Aug 14 sleep on train from Venice to Rome??????? Aug 15 Depart Leonardo di Vincvi Rome Airport at 2pm.

Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Joe Liptow

Hi Joe, Thanks so much and I am so glad you have found this info useful. Travelling by train overnight is a great way to save money on accommodation. So if that is something you are comfortable with then I’d say go for it. From Rome Termini you can take the Leonardo Express train from platform 24. Departures are every 30 minutes. The train is the easiest and quickest way to get around and will work perfectly for your itinerary. Your itinerary looks good. Only suggestion I would make is visiting Cinque Terre only, not Pisa. With only two days you will need the time in Cinque and Pisa really is just a tower. Hope this helps and please don’t hesitate to email us should you have any follow up questions. ( [email protected] Have a fantastic trip! Cheers Jen

Jen, your site is tremendously helpful! My husband and I will be in Italy at the end of August. We will be coming from Morocco where we will be visiting our daughter for about a week so that unfortunately cuts our time Italy. If we have only 11/2 week in Italy what would you suggest cutting out? We are physically fit and like to walk/hike and although we don’t want to miss some of the tourist things that are a MUST we are not interested in visiting a bunch of museums/churchs… we are more interested in the romance of Italy and the beautiful scenery and people. I am thinking the Amalfi Coast sounds wonderful as so does Cinque Terre, but would you do both? It is my husbands first trip there so I don’t want to miss some of the major landmarks though either. Thanks so much! Kelly

Hi Kelly, Thanks so much! If you like to walk and the outdoors I would definitely leave in Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast. I would suggest cutting Florence as it is mostly about churches and art galleries, although it is still a pretty and interesting city. Hope this helps and if you ever need anything else, please don’t hesitate to email me [email protected] . Cheers Jen

Hello Jen, My family is planning to visit Italy for the 1st time in June for 2 weeks and would love some guidance. We will be traveling with our 4 and 8 year old boys. We are thinking of starting in Rome and heading towards Venice. Is this a good idea? What would be your suggestions of places to see on our way to Venice? Should we go a different direction? Would love to squeeze an a beach day in the middle to make the boys happy 🙂 I also would like to go to Ampli but probably to far the other direction right? Do you suggest us traveling by train? Also would you suggest using a tour guide in any of the cities we visit?

Thank you for your help.

Hi Malika, Thanks for you message. I would suggest doing exactly as the itinerary above suggests except skipping Assisi for Amalfi coast. The kids can have a beach day in either Amalfi or Cinque Terre too. Also train would definitely be the easiest way to get around, just make sure you don’t bring too much luggage as you will have to carry it all with you. IN the cities, keep an eye out for free walking tours. They are a great intro to each city and the guides are always very good because they work for tips only. Hope this has been of some help to you. Cheers Jen

Thank you Jen for all the tips 🙂 We are starting in Rome- When should be our stop to Amalfi coast? Should that be a couple days trip? We will skip Assisi.

I’d suggest spending your time in Rome and then moving onto Amalfi coast from there and then making your way north again. You’ll need at least 2 nights there.

Hi Jen, I really love your site. I’m planning on going to Italy with my 2 friends early september time for about 2 weeks of travel. We have just started looking into it and are just starting to figure out the places we want to go to. Do you think Venice, Verona (max 1/2 day), Milan, Florence (into Cinque Terre for a day or so), Rome and then into Naples to see Pompeii, Sorrento and Capri is doable? I realise our time is quite limited and we do have a lot on our list, or would you recommend taking some places out and spending more time in others, if so which would you suggest? Any help would be much appreciated!

Hi Hazel, Thanks for your kind words. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights of Italy. Here is what I suggest based on the places you mentioned you’d like to visit: Venice – 3 nights – half day trip to Verona Cinque Terre – 2 nights Florence – 3 nights – day trip into Tuscany Rome – 4 nights Sorrento – 2 nights – visit Pompeii on the way there and day trip Capri and Amalfi coast. So a total 14 nights. I suggest skipping Milan unless something there really interests you, we found it to be the least interesting place we visited in Italy. There also isn’t a lot to see in Naples itself so I’ve suggested to base yourself in Sorrento instead. I hope this helps and if you have any other questions I am always happy to help, just drop me an email [email protected] Cheers Jen

We are planning a trip to Italy and have devoured your site. It is wonderful. Two quick questions:

1) Do train tickets need to be purchased in advanced? For an exact time? 2) When getting off the train, are there taxis to get us to the hotel OR prearrange transfer?

Thanks for any help, I am sure I will be continuing to ask questions.

Hi Shawn, So glad that you found our site useful. Here are the answers to your questions: 1) No you are not required to make reservations in advance. Although it would be recommended depending on the time of year you are travelling. If it is peak season over summer you may find yourself having to wait a few hours at the train station for an available seat. Outside of this you would be ok to make reservation at the station on the day. 2) The train stations in Europe are usually right in the heart of the city centre so you can either walk (if your accommodation is close enough), take public transport like subway, bus or tram or you can take a taxi which are readily available at all train stations. Hope this has helped! Cheers Jen

I’m planning to follow your itinerary for my trip to italy. But i would be going from mid december to end december, which is winter. Do you think that’s still a good idea?

Hi Jen! This is great information! very helpful! We are planning a trip to Italy We are flying into and leaving from Rome, so there will be some back tracking involved (16 nights total that includes the last night we have to be back in rome). We are travelling with our 5 and 8 year olds. We were thinking of 5 nights in rome, 2-3 in Florence, 2 in Cinque Terre, 2-3 in venice, 2 in Sorrento. We are wondering weather to go to Sorrento first from Rome, then make our way back to Rome or Florence and up north or the other way round. Since we have to leave on July 4rth morning 10:30AM flight, we either have to spend our last night in Rome, or consider an itinerary in which we take an overnight train back to Rome. Any suggestions? Total 16 nights, including the last night back in Rome. Also we really wanted to go to Lake Como but it looks like we have to pick between amalfi and Como. Thanks!

Hi MD, Thanks and glad you found the post helpful. Firstly, you’re itinerary sounds pretty good and I wouldn’t change it really. I’d suggest visiting Rome first then heading to Sorrento then Florence as you will probably be a little tired and jetlagged when you arrive. If you had to rush off to Sorrento straight way you probably wouldn’t enjoy it as much. Also Lake Como as well would be a stretch and from our experience, the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are more enjoyable. Hope this helps and feel free to email us any time with followup questions ( [email protected] ). Cheers Jen

Jen thanks so much for your reply. We have 7 nights which we have to split between Florence, CT and sorrento. Any suggestions? I was thinking 2 in CT, 3 in Florence and 2 in sorrento, but I am confused between sorrento and Florence depending on things to do. Thanks again!

No worries. I think those numbers are good if you only have 7 days. You can walk (or take the train) the Cinque Terre easily in one day so two nights is perfect. In Florence, 3 nights will give you time to take a day trip to Tuscany while also checking out the best of the city itself. And 2 nights in Sorrento can be spent exploring the Amalfi Coast on a day trip or visiting Capri. This is still going to be tight though so if you can manage another few nights it would make it more comfortable, but certainly do-able with what you already have. Hope this has helped.

This is just awesome. We are planning to spend two and 1/2 weeks in Italy. With this itinerary I now know where to start. Is Tuscany doable with this itinerary or Pisa or Pompei? I have no idea how far away things are.

Thanks Kelly. Glad we could help. You could easily take day trips from Florence to visit Pisa and Tuscany and from Rome to Pompeii. If you’d like specific recommendations, feel free to email me. ( [email protected] ) Cheers

We are planning our trip to Italy using your suggested Itinerary exactly how you presented it on your web site. However, we would like to do one side trip to the Alps on the Bernina Express at the end of our trip from Venice. Is there any easy way to get to Tiriano WITHOUT going back to Milan? It seems like SO much time on a train.

We will be spending an overnight in CHUR and then coming back to Milan for our flight home. There is a train for Tiriano to Milan but I can’t find one from Venice to Tiriano.

Thanks for your message and I am so glad you have found our itinerary useful.

Unfortunately I don’t have good news for you. There is no direct train from Venice to Tirano. You will have to travel via Milan.

If you have any more questions about your trip, don’t hesitate to email us at [email protected] .

All the best.

Jen –

Your website is amazing and so helpful. I’m literally writing you sitting in La Spezia per your recommendation of Cinque Terre, waiting for the rain to clear up. I’ll be using your website for most, to all of our future travel plans!

I wanted to reach out to you and let you know that the Fiat 500 Touring Club tour we took in Florence was absolutely out of this world awesome. If you are ever back in Florence I’d recommend that you do it and any travelers looking on this website should do the same!

Also in your comment sections you may want to consider having the most recent comments show at the top rather than the bottom (I’m on an IPad, so I’m not sure if it is my device, but I’d like the most recent stuff at the top).

Thanks so much for your lovely comments and feedback Zac. I am so glad you are enjoying your trip and that we were able to help you with it. I hear it has been raining quite a bit lately in CT, so fingers crossed you will get some sunshine before you move on.

I will absolutley check out that tour next time we are in Italy!

And I will look into the comments order issue. Thanks for making me aware!

All the best!

Great website. We didn’t know where to start but when we came across this website it all made sense. This would be our (DH with 6yrs old and 8yrs old kids) first ever visit to Italy and we are very excited.

We were wandering if you could help us with some questions below. We have booked the flights – flying into Milan (29 Jun) and flying out of Rome (13 July) for a total of 14 nights. Would this itinerary work for the flights above. We love travelling by train and like all your suggestions and recommendation. We are not too big on architecture and museums but love sightseeing and being out and about. So we are planning exactly as you suggested but in reverse due to flights – 3 days in Milan, 3 days in Venice, 2 days in CT, 3 days in Florence and 3 days in Rome in that order. Is this doable? Would the trains work in that sequence. The trip from Venice to CT being the one that I am not too sure about. We are open to rearranging the itinerary that suits the trains and logistics accordingly.

We were hoping to spend more time around Lake Como rather than Milan itself. You have given some wonderful ideas for Venice so we wont change anything there. But kids wanted to see the leaning tower in Pisa which seems to be on the way from La Spezia to Florence. Would you advise a quick stopover to Pisa (drop the luggage at train station) on the way back to Florence or should we head straight to Florence and then do the day tours from there. May be day tours of Tuscany including Sienna, San Giminagno and wineyards. Would 3 days be enough in Florence with this?

We were also thinking of skipping Assisi altogether and heading straight to Rome from Florence so its not too hectic. Not sure if that is the right decision as Assisi seems like a nice place but we are just being mindful that we would be not as energetic towards the end of the trip.

Sorry if these are too many questions but I am just encouraged by your kind and lovely nature well reflected in your replies to similar question above.

Hi Nav, Thanks so much and we are so glad this was useful for you. You itinerary sounds perfect and will work in that order for the trains and it is also perfect for optimising your time. Stopping in Pisa on the from La Spezia to Florence is easy as there is lockers at the station. There are multiple stations at Pisa. You want to get off at Pisa S.Rossore as this is the closest to the tower itself. A day trip into Tuscany would compliment 3 days in Florence perfectly. And yes three days would be plenty of time. I think skipping Assisi is fine and will definitely help slow the pace of the trip down and give you more time in lovely Rome. If you need anything further, don’t hesitate to email me ( [email protected] ) and I’d be happy to help. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

We have now finalized the itinerary and looking forward to the trip.

Many thanks for all your help.

No worries Nav. Glad to have helped. And we’d love to hear from you after your trip too to tell us all about it!

My family is planning a European vacation, mainly in Italy, but with other destinations such as Croatia and Switzerland. We had originally thought of renting a car, but the train sounds attractive to make the best of our time. We will have about 4 weeks. I’m wondering, do you know if there is a boat/ferry service from somewhere in Italy to Croatia, or is a flight or train more suitable?(just to save time). We also have to think of cost, given the length of time we are away and # of people we are buying tickets for. Is there a site that I can visit to find out about these low cost flights? Also, if we were to to go Europe in April or May, would we be limited as to attractions that are open? We can do later in summer but we’d rather go at a time where there are fewer tourists if possible, but don’t want to find that we’re unable to get in to see things we want.

Hey Janet, Your trip sounds great. We’d love to visit Croatia ourselves someday. For the ferries there are services and you’ll find all you need to know on this page http://www.croatiaferries.com/italy-ferries.htm For flights we use and recommend Skyscanner to compare prices. Flying may be quicker to get from Italy to Croatia. April/May is an excellent time to visit Europe. Everything will be open as usual and you won’t have crowds like you do in summer. The weather should be good also but the night may still be a little cool in some places further north like Switzerland. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction to get started on your planning. And don’t hesitate to reach out should you have any more questions. Cheers Jen

This was soo helpeful!

I am planning a trip to italy myself and this helped cut down some time!

I am planning way ahead and using 1 day to travel — even by train. & doing 2 full days in each location — is that too much? by doing this my trip is 4-5 days longer because of travel. for ex: rome to florence — travel 10th — get there on the 10th and stay until 13th

any suggestions?

Thanks Amrit. Glad you found this useful. I’d say that you don’t need a full day to travel. For example, the train journey from Rome to Florence is only just over an hour. So you could leave Rome at 8am and be in Florence just after 9am with the full day ahead of you. This will give you more time in each place.

Hello! I’ll be travelling to Italy this November 2-12. I have 10 full days. This is my first solo trip so I am excited and terrified at the same time. I was planning to go Rome, Florence, Tuscany, Venice. But friends have been telling me that November is not a good time to visit Venice (extremely cold, knee high floods). Do you recommend anywhere else? I’m from Manila so I fear for the cold weather. haha Should I consider Naples and Cinque Terre?

Hey Kat, You must be so excited! Italy is amazing and I am sure you will love it. And go on you for going solo too! November is when the weather starts to get cooling in Europe. The further south you are the less effected you will be. So with that in mind, I suggest the Amalfi Coast. It is not too far from Rome and the weather will be better than what it would be in Venice. Although just to warn you, it still won’t be warm. The Amalfi Coast is beautiful and there is lots to do there like cruising the coast, exploring to little towns and checking out the Isle of Capri and grotto. I suggest basing youself in Sorrento and taking day trips from there. I hope this help and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions.Hope you have an amazing time! Cheers Jen

Thanks for the itinerary we are about to head to Italy. Our plan is to go from Venice to Rome and we will probably skip Milan and go to Bologna instead. Have you been to Bologna? Any suggestions?

Hey Ben, That sounds like a good plan. We haven’t been to Bologna sorry but would love to visit it someday. Have a great time in Italy, I am sure you guys will love it! Cheers Jen

Can i just say your post is AMAZING! it’s my first time to italy for my honeymoon and this is perfect! can’t wait for my trip and jsut want to say thank you for making it so easy 🙂

Love, tenny

Thanks Tenny! I am so glad you found this useful and I hope that you have the most amazing honeymoon.

Jen, how is renting a car? I am flying into Milan and I want to travel to both Rome and Venice. Would it be more feasible to rent a car?

Hi Jennifer, I definitely think taking the train is much cheaper and more convenient. Firstly, you can’t drive a car in Venice as there are no roads so you’d be paying for parking the entire time you were there. Secondly, in Milan and Rome you’d also be paying a premium for parking and would be better utilising the excellent public transport systems both cities offer. Finally, you’d need to factor in petrol costs and traffic in Milan and Rome. If you don’t plan to visit rural areas where the train doesn’t go, I always recommend taking the train. Hope this helps. Cheers Jen

Definitely recommend the train…..much more relaxing, and when you get to cities like Rome you don’t want to be driving!

Couldn’t agree more Gloria!

We are planning a trip to Italy next October or November. We will have 14 or 15 nights in Italy. We will be flying into Rome and out of Venice. We want to see Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Cinque Terre and Venice. We would like to spend a few nights in Montepulciano. What would be your recommendation for getting around in Tuscany? Should we rent a car for this portion of our trip? If we rent a car, where would be a good place to pick up and drop off? I have heard they advise against driving in Florence. And in what order would you do this? Tuscany, Florence and then Cinque Terre and then to Venice?

Hi Wendy. Your trip sounds exciting! For your car in Tuscany, you could pick up in Sienna which is easily reached by train from Florence or Rome. Otherwise there are some great day trips from Florence that will allow you to see the highlights of Tuscany too. Also the order you have mentioned is perfect and makes sense. It is exactly what I would do. Hope you have a great time!

Hi Jen! If we have about 7 days could we do Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome??

Hi Katy, That will be very tight. Rome itself needs at least 3 days. I would suggest removing one of the places or adding an extra 2-3 days to your trip if possible.

Hi Jen, Thanks for the lovely article and insight; question 1. If you were to skip one/two destinations from the list and add the Amalfi coast in here and still fit them in a 15 day itinerary what would be your recommendations please?

Thanks Parya. If I had to pick two places to remove in place of the Amalfi coast it would be Assisi and Milan. Both I loved but the Amalfi Coast is really something special. Hope this helps.

Hi Jen, what a fabulous article! You have truly given me some real inspiration, thank you!! The only question I have, is if I were to miss out Rome (as I’ve been there a number of times, I have a family member who lives there) where would you suggest I spend the additional few days? Thanks again for all your help.

Thanks Hayley. Appreciate your lovely comment. I would highly recommend the Amalfi Coast/Sorrento area if you haven’t already been there. It is one of the most stunning parts of the country and if you love beaches and the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle then you will love it. Alternatively, if your more of a countryside person, a few days exploring Tuscany would be a great option too. Hope this helps and hope you have an amazing time in Italy!

Hi Jen! This article definitely sparked an interest in us! My wife and I will be doing 2 weeks in Italy in mid-April. We will be arriving in Naples and departing out of Venice 15 days later. I love your article, but figured we would like to streamline/tweak things a bit. We really want to do Naples, Rome (spent 3 days there a couple years ago and want to explore so much more of it), Bomarzo – The park of Monsters, Florence, Parma (1 day I’m guessing is enough), and Venice. Any advice you have for us as far as itinerary and such would be AWESOME!

Hi John. I am so glad you found the itinerary useful! On paper, your itinerary looks good to me however I haven’t personally visited some of those places so I can’t comment on how much time you will need in each place. If you have any specific questions about Rome, Florence, Venice or getting around Italy in general, I’d be happy to help where I can. Happy travels!

Hi, I am just in the beginning process of planning out trip to Italy this summer. We will be traveling with a check-in sized bag. How will that work out when traveling from city to city via train? Are there overhead storages available? Do they have to get checked into a certain area on the train? Would it be safe? Are there extra charges to have luggage on board? Any feedback would be appreciated.

Hi Christine, There are no porters or checked luggage on trains in Europe so whichever luggage you take, you have to be prepared to carry it around yourself. So when you pack, make sure you think about this. On the train there are overhead racks for smaller bags (will fit 60L pack or smaller) and luggage areas at end of each carriage where you can store larger suitcases. If you are taking a larger bag, I recommend taking a padlock and chain to secure your bag as the racks are not monitored. I’ve never had an issue but I have heard of others having their bags tampered with or stolen. If you are really worried my best advice is to take a smaller bag that you can store overhead. Hope you have a great trip!

Hi Jen, I just came across your article while searching for a “Budgeted” Italy itinerary and i appreciate all the information you have shared. I am planning for a solo Italy trip in October 2017 for 10 days from India. My main reason to go there is to visit the St Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel and the Shrine of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina located in the town of San Giovanni Rotondo (SGR). Rest of the beautiful places (Florence, Venice, Milan etc) are also on my list and yes i wouldn’t mind exploring them considering the days i have in my hand. It would be great if you could help me plan a good itinerary and suggest the best possible places to cover during my stay in Italy and yes to make the most memorable trip ever 🙂

Thanks & Regards, Merlyn.

Hi Merlyn, I’d be happy to help. Please email me [email protected] with what you have so far and I can help you from there. Cheers Jen

my husband and I are planning our first trip to Italy next year. Is there any problem with doing this itinerary in reverse?

Hi Jenni, Absolutely not. This is just a guide so feel free to change it around however it works best for you. Have a great time! Cheers Jen

Is there a website or a way you recommend to save money buying a lot of train tickets around Italy? I am flying into Rome and out of Milan. I am interested in also seeing Naples, Pompeii, Florence, Tuscany, Cinque Terre, and Venice. I only have two weeks, though. Is this enough time to do all of those via train? I couldn’t find a way to buy a cheap rail pass covering unlimited 2 weeks of travel. Is there a way to do that? THanks! Kateri

Hi Kateri, Thanks for your comment. A rail pass will likely be the cheapest way to go for this journey. Depending on which country you are from will depend on what is available and at what price. If you use the links provided in the post above that are specific to your country or region, you will be able to find out more information. Or feel free to email me and can provide you with more info. Cheers Jen

I would definitely do this itinerary with some of my favorite places to stay, great post Jen

Thanks Noel!

Wow great tour!

My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Italy in September and I don’t know where to begin with my planning. It can be a little bit overwhelming planning a trip to a place you’ve never been. We are staying for 13 full days( 15 total but considering those travel days) flying into Rome and leaving from Venice. In between we’d love to see Florence , Milan, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, and Tuscany . Are we in over our heads? Any suggestions you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Amelia, I can totally understand how it can feel overwhelming planning a big trip like this. I too feel like this with new places and that is why I wrote this post and all the others on this blog, to help people cut through the overwhelm. The itinerary I have outlined above would definitely work for you with a few adjustments. Change Asissi for Amalfi Coast and take a day off Rome and you should be able to fit it all in. It will be pretty hectic but if you only have 13 days then this will allow you to see the highlights of each place. If you wanted to travel at a slower pace, I would suggest just selecting 3-4 places from the list and spending more time there. Hope this helps and please don’t hesitate to email me if you have any follow up questions. Happy travels! Cheers Jen

We went back to the drawing board with our itinerary… 15 days and 13 nights total in Italy, flying into Rome and out of Venice. So far we are thinking 3 nights Rome, 3 nights in Florence (with a day trip to Tuscany) , 2 nights in Cinque Terre, 2 nights in Milan – with the possibility of a day trip to Lake Como and we are also thinking to spend a few hours at QC Termemilano ( the spa ) then ending it off with 3 nights in Venice. Any suggestions you have would be appreciated or if you feel it could be mapped out any better please feel free to let me know !

Hi Amelia, I think this sounds like a well balanced plan with enough time to see the highlights in each place. Except for maybe Milan if you want to do the day trip as well. Although if your main motivation for visiting Milan is to day trip to Lake Como and you don’t mind missing out on Milan, then that is fine also. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen, Love all your information above! Not sure if you still look at the comments, I just have a couple questions. Firstly our flight was booked going into Milan and returning from Rome. 14 days total. From Milan do you suggest CT first and then onto Florence or Venice first? We were originally thinking of Florence and renting an apartment for 8 days and then doing a series of shorter trips to CT and Venice. Secondly my wife and I have traveled to Italy before. This trip is more for our teenage kids. It seems their patience may run low after a few of the gallerias and cathedrals. Anywhere you suggest they can blow off some steam? Thank You!

Hi Anil, Thanks for the comment. Happy to help where I can. From Milan I would suggest visiting Venice fist then CT and then Florence. Basing yourself in Florence may be a good idea although you would be spending a lot of extra time travelling to and from places. City bike tours are great for teenage kids. They get to be active, tire themselves out and the parents get to see the sites. I one day bike tour in Tuscany from Florence may also be a great thing the kids will love. In CT the walk between the towns is good for all ages and I guarantee the kids will be exhausted at the end. Hope this helps and if you have any other questions, I’d be happy to help where I can. Have a great trip. Cheers Jen

Dear Jen, Great Post. Congratulations! My brother (27) and myself (31) are planning our maiden trip to Italy around July for 2 weeks. We will be travelling from Kolkata (India) and my top priority is to taste all the Classical Italian food as it is my passion and profession for life. Could u suggest a clever itinerary to experience the maximum (food and must visit places to have a selfie 😏) and possibly where to start and end to fly back home stuffed with “The Been there , Tasted That” pride😁 P.S. my lil bro has No idea about this.. but I m sure he will understand 😉 Thanks.

Hi Kezang. Thanks for your message and kind words. You have definitely chosen the perfect country to explore if you love food. I would recommend my itinerary about for a first-time visitor to the country. You will be able to taste all that great food and see most of the major sites as well. If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Have a great time. Cheers Jen

Hello would you recommend also going to the south of Italy within a two week tour? Like the Amalfi Coast (Positano)?

Hi Claudia, You would be very tight with time if you tried to fit in another stop. I would suggest if the Amalfi Coast is somewhere you would really like to go, that you either add an extra 2-3 days to your trip or take out something else from the itinerary and replace it with the Amalfi coast. Cheers Jen

We are doing 9 nights in Italy with 3 nights in Venice, Florence and Verona.

We are looking to a day trip out of each of the three places, thinking Lake Garda, Wine Trip in Tuscany and then not sure where from Venice?

Do you have any ideas and also how is best to book these?

Hi Lauren, For Venice I would spend the 3 days hopping between the islands like Murano and Burano near Venice. They are all easy to access on public transport from Venice at stops along the Grand Canal. For booking the other two day trips, I would suggest checking out Viator.com. They have a big range of day tours available and I have never had a problem booking with them. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Thanks for the detailed itinerary Jen. I shall surely plan my itinerary based on the pointers mentioned by you.

THanks Jesal. Enjoy Italy!

This is a great site. Thank you making it easier for us to plan our trip to italy for the first time with your receommended itinerary and other info. Questions: 1. If we skip Milan is there a train from La Spezia to Venice or it is better to train back to Florence, stay another night there, and then train to Venice from there? 2. We are trying avoid peak summer time. Is April or May a good time to go there?

Thanks Bill appreciate the comments. Here are answers to your questions: 1. Via Florence would be the long way. You can travel to Venice with one train change in Milan (6 hours travel time) or with two changes via Parma and Bologna (5 hours travel time). I recommend bahn.de website for timetable info. 2. Shoulder season (March/April/May and Sept/Oct/Nov) are my recommended times to visit. The weather is still relatively good and mild and there are less crowds about. Hope this helps and have a great trip!

Hi Jen, Just dug up my last inquiry with you way back in 2017 and decided to just tuck this question to it. We just got back to planning our italy trip which we postponed due to the pandemic. We are now scheduling it for Sep 2022 next year. I have a question: originally we are thinking of doing the exact itinerary you have proposed above. But then we thought of splitting our trip and make the second half a cruise. But then, to not extend our trip so much we would need to remove Cinque Terre, Milan (and Lake Como) for our trip. This is the land/cruise combo itinerary we are looking:

Train: Rome, Assisi, Florence, Venice Cruise: Venice, Split, Kotor, Corfu, Naples, Rome

as oppposed to originally:

Train: Rome, Assisi, Florence, Cinque Terre, Milan (and Lake Como), Venice

What do you think? Is it worth substituting CT, Milan and Lake Como with a cruise with the above port stops?

Thanks for your input.

Thank you Jen for the wonderful itinerary. This is a perfect plan for a two week trip to Italy. Thank you for providing every single detail in the plan. Very helpful.

Thanks Madh. Glad I could help.

Thank you for this fabulous post! The husband & I would like to go to Italy for our honeymoon in December this year, and we were looking at tour packages but nothing has really caught our fancy yet. I suggested touring ourselves and this itinerary is really a great place for us to begin!

From what you suggest, staying at Florence is a good base for visiting other smaller towns? We both don’t speak Italian, would this pose a problem travelling in this country? Especially when taking trains – we somehow have problems with that sometimes 🙂

Appreciate your advice!

Hi Joy, So glad you found it helpful and congrats on your upcoming nuptials! Florence is a great place to base yourself for day trips. You can visit Tuscan countryside and towns, Pisa, Lucca and many more places quite easily either by organised day tour or on your own using the train system. Language will not be a problem as most signs in also in English. I recommend learning a few simple phrases in Italian to help you get by, however it isn’t necessary. The first time I visited Italy I didn’t speak the language and got by just fine. Hope you have an amazing trip!

Hi Jen can you give me some advice for 10 night itinerary – may skip Rome – want to focus on Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre and maybe Lake Como/Milan – is this doable in 10 nights/11 days??

Thanks Much!

Hi Elaine, Once you take Rome and Assisi out of this itinerary ti works perfectly for 10 days! Cheers Jen

Great travel blog!!!. I was looking for exactly this kind of detailed travel plan which not only covers the stops but the local attractions as well. Thanks for putting it all in one place.

My wife , I and our young daughter will be in Italy for 14 nights and 15 Days. We like historical sites .

1. I would like to visit a few more places Like Pisa (which I can cover on the way to CT from Florence) ,Siena and Orvieto. Please help me to add this places in my itinerary. 2. To save time , I planning to start from Rome in early morning and reach Assisi around 10 AM and leave for Florence in the evening. Would that be very hectic ?

Regards Anirban

HI Anirban, Thanks for the compliment. I am glad you found this useful. I would be cautious about loading too much into the trip as you will b exhausted and spend very little quality time in each place. You could definitely do a day trip to Siena and Tuscany from Florence. There are lots of historical sites in Rome, were you not planning to spend time there? Cheers Jen

Thanks for your response. I just booked tickets to Rome. We will stay 15 nights and 16 days at Italy.

Here is our tour plan.

Day 1-4 Rome; Will reach at 9 AM Day 3 Orvieto Day 4 Assisi Day 5-6 Siena & San Gimignano Day 7-9 Florence Day 10 Pisa; Start early morning from Florence and will spend the day in Pisa and reach La Speiza in the Evening Day 11 -12 Cheque Terre Day 13-15 Venice; Day 13 will start from La Speiza and reach Venice in the afternoon Day 16 Return to Home

Please let me know how it’s looking ?

Sounds perfect to me Anirban! I couldn’t have planned it better myself!!! Enjoy your trip.

Thank you so much for this itinerary suggestion. I am travelling to Italy in August and will be staying for 16 nights and will have 15 full days to explore this beautiful country. The most common advice I read on internet forums is that don’t try to cram everything in one visit but I have an illness which restricts my travelling and therefore would like to make the most of my visit because there may not be another opportunity to visit Italy again for me. I am quite an inexperienced traveller so any advice will be gratefully received.

My itinerary (so far) is looking like this:

Day 1 – Arrive in Milan (5pm), stay in Milan

Day 2 – Explore Milan, travel to Lake Como (late afternoon), stay in Lake Como

Day 3 – Explore Lake Como, stay in Lake Como

Day 4 – Early morning train to Venice, explore Venice, stay in Venice

Day 5 – Explore Venice, stay in Venice

Day 6 – Explore Venice, travel to Bologna (pm), stay in Bologna

Day 7 – Explore Bologna, travel to Florence (pm), stay in Florence

Day 8 – Explore Florence, stay in Florence

Day 9 – Explore Florence, stay in Florence

Day 10 – Day trip to Siena, travel Rome (pm), Stay in Rome

Day 11 – Explore Rome, stay in Rome

Day 12 – Explore Rome, stay in Rome

Day 13 – Explore Rome, stay in Rome

Day 14 – Travel to Naples (early train) explore Naples, travel to Amalfi Coast (pm), stay in AC

Day 15 – Explore Amalfi Coast, travel back to Naples Airport, stay at Naples airport

Day 16 – Early morning flight back home

Do you think this itinerary is doable, or would you cut some places out?

Thanks so much, Jen.

Hi Sajid, You itinerary looks great! Yes it is a little packed full but if this is your one and only opportunity to visit Italy then I say make the most of it. Only thing I might change would be more time in Amalfi Coast. You could take a night from Florence or Rome. The Amalfi Coast is beautiful and there is much to see there. It would be a nice relaxing way to end your trip. I hope you have a lovely trip and do wish that you return to good health one day soon. Cheers Jen

Thanks Jen. I really like your posted trip. I am considering following this exact itinerary (with an added day trip to Pompeii) this June with my wife and two teens. But I have one major question about travelling by train. We will have 4 standard 22inch rollerboard suitcases. What do we do with them in Assisi, Florence, Cinque Terre, and Venice when we arrive before check in times at our VRBOs? I don’t want to be dragging those down the streets all day before we can check in!

Hi Nick, Most train stations have luggage storage for a fee. These is also a baggage transfer service in Italy. Google Bagaglio Facile. Basically your bags are delivered door to door so you don’t need to worry about lugging them around. Hope this helps and that you have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen Im planning to visit Italy in March. Would it be a suitable time to visit Italy. My plan is to stay for 15 days kindly guide me on the best 15days visit plan. Thanks and rgds Sami Khan

Hi Sami, March would be a nice time to visit and the itinerary I have outlined below is what I suggest. It is perfect for 15 days! Have great trip! Cheers Jen

This is a wonderful itinerary. I wish we could do it all. However we can only stay 10 days. Do you have a suggestion on what to change?

Hi Julie Of course, I suggest removing Assisi and Milan. All of the other places are so rich with history and full of stunning things to see and do. While I loved Assisi and Milan, with 10 days this is what I suggest. Hope you have a great trip! Cheers Jen

I am looking forward to visiting Italy this summer (late June-July) with my husband and adult son. Initially we wanted to revisit Paris for 3 days, but it seems like there’s so much to see and do in Italy that perhaps we should spend the entire 15 days there. I would appreciate your help with my itinerary. We would love to spend 3 days in Rome, 1 in Milan, and 2 days in Venice and Florence. I can’t decide between Amafi Coast or Cinque Terre. We are foodies and also on a tight budget. Help!

Hi Venita! Sounds like a great trip you have planned. Personally I would spend your time in Italy,as you mentioned you have visited Paris before. There is a lot of amazing things to see in Italy that you can easily fill your time. If I had to choose between Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, I would choose Amalfi. It is honestly one of the most stunning parts of the world I have visited. That’s not to say that Cinque Terre isn’t also fantastic, but if I had to pick one, then Amalfi would be it. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen – love your itinerary and we are basing our trip around it. I note you mention getting a morning train from La Spezia to Milan but the earliest I can find for a Monday in August is 12.38pm. Should I be looking somewhere else? Thanks

Hi Sally, Schedules are different on different days and at different times of the year. I’d suggest just getting a train as close to the morning as you can. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen. I’m so glad I read this first as I’m just starting my research. My family of 6 (including 2 kids and 2 grandparents) will be in Italy from 8-21 June. We will be landing in Milan and departing from Milan as well. Booked the tickets last year as there was an airline promotion so unfortunately we won’t be able to land in Rome first. We definitely want to cover Rome, Pisa, Venice and Florence and Lake Como. Can you recommend an itinerary route that will work best for us? Many thanks!!

Hi Flora, No worries at all if you can’t start and finish in Rome. You can do exactly the same itinerary I mention above just start and finish in Milan instead. It work just the same. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

I’m in my 60’s and visiting Italy is my all time bucket list item. Planning our first trip ever to Europe and it sounds so daunting. Your itinerary sounds perfect! Only one question – what is typical check-in time for hotels in Italy? When we arrive at any of these destinations do we have to drag our luggage around for a good portion of the day before check-in time? Doesn’t sound like fun.

Hi Jessica, It is a very daunting processing organising travel, but I am here to make it easier for you Check in time is typically around 3pm. Sometimes you can get into the room earlier. However, if you can’t, all hotels have a luggage room where you can store your luggage if you are early. No need to drag your bag around until check-in time. If you are staying in something like Airbnb which doesn’t have a reception, then you will find luggage storage at all major train stations in Europe too. Hope this helps and don’t hesitate to contact me if I can help with anything else. Cheers Jen

I am so happy to have found your site! It is well-written, thorough and takes the “overwhelm” out of planning our first trip to Italy. We will have two weeks late September/early October. Our plan was to stay in the north — Venice, Lake Como, Cinque Terre, Florence/Tuscany and fly out of Milan. In your opinion, is it a mistake to avoid Rome (we’re averse to huge crowds). Also, what are your thoughts about an overnight side trip to the French Riviera (Monaco, Nice etc.)?

Thank you so much for your lovely site and attention to detail!

Hi Trudy, Thank you for the lovely compliments. I am glad you have found this useful. If Rome isn’t your thing, then I say skip it. Travel is about doing what you want to do. It costs a lot of money, so follow what feels right for you. Take what others say as suggestions. For the French Riviera, you would be a very limited on time for an overnight trip. It will take hours to get there and back. Maybe look at Genoa in Italy as an alternative? It is closer to your route, just as lovely as the French Riviera and much quieter. If I can help with anything else, don’t hesitate to ask! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen, my husband and I will be traveling to Rome in September. We wanted to take a one day train trip to Venice, how long is the train ride? And how much? We would like to return back to Rome before dark if possible.

Hi Sandy, It is a long way to go for a day trip! Train time can range form 3.5 – 4.5 hours depending on the train. If you wanted to arrive back before dark, you’d have maybe 2 hours in Venice which means you would see virtually nothing. Sorry for the brutal honesty, but I wouldn’t want you to do something that wouldn’t be worth it. How long are you in Italy for? Maybe you can factor in some time for an overnight trip to Venice at the very least? Cheers Jen

Best site ever. We arrive 11 sept 2018 for 23 days. I have done Italy twice so what u say is so true. Last time went to Florence for five days and left after 17. I am leaning towards Foggia and eastern coast for few days but will still start in Florence as have done Rome and find it easy to do all the north with trains. Naples etc of course are fabulous and will finish week in Sicily so hope the east will be good.

Thanks Mike! Sounds like you are an Italy expert!!!! Love the idea of spending time in the east and I have been dying to visit Sicily so would be interested to hear what you think when you return. Have a great trip!

Hi Jen, Thank you for creating such an easy to read site with so many helpful tips! I especially love how you answer the comment section, as many of your answers have helped me out. I am planning a trip to Italy in late July/August and getting a bit overwhelmed. I am focusing more on outdoor, nature/scenery locations and love beaches. I have already been to Rome and have my heart set on the Amalfi coast and Cinque Terre. I am trying to spend the majority of my time near the water and looking for more of a relaxed vacation where I can enjoy each location properly.

I am flying into Venice and leaving from Rome.

Day 1- Leave for Europe (night flight) Day 2-5 Venice Day 6 Leave Venice for Cinque Terre Day 7-9 Cinque Terre Day 10 Leave Cinque Terre for Florence Day 11 Florence Day 12 Leave Florence for Amalfi Day 13-17 Amalfi Day 18 Leave Amalfi for Rome Day 19 Rome Day 20 Fly Home

My questions are: 1. Will travelling between Venice and Cinque Terre take too long? Should I stop somewhere? 2. How do I know if a train is a high speed train? 3. Does this look like a relaxing itinerary or should I take out/add something? 4. Should I stay in Sorrento for a couple days or will the Amalfi coast have beaches?’ 5. Can I take out Florence and instead head from Cinque Terre straight to Amalfi Coast?

Thank you in advance!! You are awesome : ) Laila

Hi Laila, Thanks for your comment and glad you have enjoyed this itinerary and comments. Your itinerary sounds fantastic. Plenty of time to relax and see it all. I love that you are spending more time in most places. Answers to your questions are below: 1. Will travelling between Venice and Cinque Terre take too long? Should I stop somewhere? The train will take about 5 hours with one change. I don’t think an overnight stop in between is needed here. 2. How do I know if a train is a high speed train? Once you have done the research on the trains you will be catching, i suggest Google search to find out if they are high speed or not. 3. Does this look like a relaxing itinerary or should I take out/add something? I wouldn’t change a thing! You have allowed plenty of time in each place with priority given to the coastal towns. 4. Should I stay in Sorrento for a couple days or will the Amalfi coast have beaches?’ The beaches are better on the Amalfi Coast than in Sorrento. If you plan to spend a lot of time on the beach then stay in Amalfi or Positano. I personally loved spending the night in Sorrento because the town has such a great atmosphere in the evening. 5. Can I take out Florence and instead head from Cinque Terre straight to Amalfi Coast? Yes you could take out Florence if you want to spend more time elsewhere. Alternatively, a smaller town in Tuscany might be more your speed. This would give you some time to get out in nature as well. Siena is one, although still quite big but very beautiful. Maybe San Gimignano. Hope this helps and have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen thank you so much for your wonderful trip description, I am so thrilled to go to Italy this July for two weeks. I wanted to ask you since I see your trip started in Rome and everyone recommends flying into Rome from NY, I was thinking to start at Rome and fly out of Venice back to NY would that be just as fine. Also I read that it is advised to purchase a city pass to get quick access to museums and other sites, what would you recommend? We love art and wanted to see as much as possible, Thank you.

Hi Victoria, Thanks so much! Yes, as the itinerary suggests above, to make the most of your time I suggest flying into Rome and out of Venice. A city pass is a great option if you are going to access lots of the included activities on it. Cheers Jen

Thank you, Jen, for all this wonderful information. Planning a trip to Italy in September and you have helped immensely!

Great to here thanks Beth!

Love your recommendations and feedback to all the comments folks have thrown your way. We are planning a trip for 6 to 8 of us in early June 2019. We are trying to maximize 2 weeks, but not also over whelm ourselves. We are working on the two options and looking for what makes most sense between the two when it comes to utilizing the train system to get around and explore.

Proposal 1 Day 1 Sunday: Arrive in Venice in the morning/Explore and sleep in Venice Day 2 Monday: Explore Venice, sleep in Venice Day 3 Tuesday: Train to Vernazza (Cinque Terre area), sleep in Vernazza Day 4 Wednesday: Explore Cinque Terre, sleep in Vernazza Day 5 Thursday: Train to Florence via Pisa, sleep in Florence Day 6 Friday: Explore Florence, sleep in Florence Day 7 Saturday: Train to Sorrento to get transportation Praiano sleep in Praiano Day 8 Sunday: Explore Coast sleep in Praiano Day 9 Monday: Explore Coast sleep in Praiano Day 10 Tuesday: Look to book car and then train to Rome Via Pompeii, sleep in Rome Day 12 Wednesday: Explore Rome, sleep in Rome Day 13 Thursday: Explore Rome, sleep in Rome Day 14 Friday: Explore Rome, sleep in Rome Day 15 Saturday: Fly home

Proposal 2 Day 1 Sunday: Arrive in Venice in the morning/Explore and sleep in Venice Day 2 Monday: Explore Venice, sleep in Venice Day 3 Tuesday: Train to Vernazza (Cinque Terre area), sleep in Vernazza Day 4 Wednesday: Explore Cinque Terre, sleep in Vernazza Day 5 Thursday: Explore Cinque Terre, sleep in Vernazza Day 6 Friday: Train to Sorrento via Pisa to get transportation to Praino and sleep in Praiano Day 7 Saturday: Explore Coast sleep in Praiano Day 8 Sunday: Explore Coast sleep in Praiano Day 9 Monday: Explore Coast sleep in Praiano Day 10 Tuesday: Look to book car and then train to Rome Via Pompeii, sleep in Rome Day 12 Wednesday: Explore Rome, sleep in Rome Day 13 Thursday: Explore Rome, sleep in Rome Day 14 Friday: Explore Rome, sleep in Rome Day 15 Saturday: Fly home

HI Michael, Thanks for you message. happy to help where I can. The major difference I can see with these two is that in the second option you are skipping Florence in favour of more time in Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast. I guess the decision is down to which you would prefer to do more. If you like being by the water more than in a city full of museums then option 2 would be the best choice. If you want more variety from the trip then I would go with option 1. For option 2, I question whether you will have enough time to stop in Pisa. I would suggest looking into this a little more to see if it is viable. You also mention in both itineraries about booking a car. What are you going to use this for? If it is to drive to Rome, you could easily take the train. Once you arrive in Rome, traffic and parking will be an issue if you have a car. I hope this helps and if I can help with anything else, don’t be afraid to ask. Cheers Jen

Thank you for the feedback and response, the discussion for the car is to get transportation (private driver or taxi) for travel to and from a larger coastal city where there is a train to the smaller town of Praiano for our stay in Afani coastal area.

Hi Jen, I’m from Canada and really want to plan a trip to Italy. Your site was the first one I looked at and looks great. Are there alot of foodie spots on this tour as I’m very interested in the food culture there. Thanks Lisa

Hi Lisa, Italy is foodie central! Everywhere you go you will find amazing food. Just be sure to choose restaurants away from the tourist hot spots. Look to backstreets and unexplored local only areas and you will find great places to eat. Cheers Jen

Hi Jen, Great post and information! I am planning a solo trip to Italy this winter over the Christmas/New Year holidays (12 days) and was having trouble with finding ideas on itineraries. Needless to say – I LOVE your site. Great read and pictures, plus the comments are super helpful. I like your posted itinerary, with the exception of starting in Venice and ending in Rome while skipping Assisi. Do you (or any readers) have any suggestions on where to spend New Year? I will likely be spending Christmas in Budapest and then head over to enjoy Italy (which has been on my bucket list for YEARS). I know I won’t get to see everything this trip, but it will leave me wanting to come back again. Which is fine and dandy. Best!

Thanks Liz. Glad you have found this so useful.

Any of the bigger cities like Rome, Florence or Venice will have big fireworks displays, concerts and organised events for New Years. I guess it depends on what you are after. If you want to go to a club, Florence has good ones. If you want to be out on the street, Rome or Venice might be better. I think anywhere you be will be different from where you come from, so will be a great experience for you.

Hope you have a great trip!

Very helpful information — thanks for doing so much legwork for the rest of us. We have 10 days and will focus on Rome (6 days) and the Amalfi Coast/Pompeii (4 days). It’s our first visit to Italy, but I prefer going to fewer places with more depth. But, what do you think about a 1-day trip by tour bus to Assisi from Rome? The train-bus seems like a lot of work for a single day, and maybe the amount of time in Assisi isn’t very different on a tour vs. having to meet the train and bus schedule. Thanks.

Hi Kevin, Thanks for your compliments. A tour to Assisi could work. Another alternative could be a day trip to Orvieto. It is only just oven an hour from Rome by train and is similar to Assisi in that it is a hill town with lots of historic buildings, a beautiful cathedral and interesting local stores and restaurants. I actually enjoyed Orvieto more than Assisi as it was not at all crowded. Hope this helps! Cheers Jen

I’m going to Italy for 12 days and while I want to go to Rome, Florence and Pisa, I’m not sure if I should go to Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre. Which one is better travelled with family? I’m leaning towards Amalfi Coast but not sure who easy it is to go from town to town.

Hi Elli, How old are the kids? If they are teenagers and good walkers then Cinque Terre. If they are younger suggest Amalfi. Cheers Jen

Excellent detailed information of Italy. I am planning around 15-17 days tour to Italy in May 2019. Would like to visit scenic places more than museums kind of. Please help with the itenarary.

Hi Jyoti, All my suggested itinerary is above in the post including additional places to visit if you have more time. Please let me know if you have any specific questions and I’d be happy to help. Cheers Jen

We are travelling to Italy in May with our daughter graduating from HS before she heads off to college arriving in Venice and leaving from Rome. Here is my itinerary. PLEASE any suggestions or changes? We think we will take backpacks (60L??) and travel high speed train. Venice 2 nights Verona 2 nights Lake Como 1 night Rapallo 3 nights Florence 2 nights Assisi 2 nights Rome 3 nights This blog is so awesome.

Hi, I found it very interesting and loving the blog tips from you! Valuable tips to plan your trip to Italy and avoid beginner mistakes. Congratulations on the site and this post will help a lot of people !!!

Hi – we are doing round trip to/from Rome, woukd you please advise what is the best way to travel between Venice and Rome? Train vs Air by local airlines? Thank you so much

Hi Kat, Definitely train. It is just a few hours and drops you right in the centre of both cities. More convenient than flying. Cheers Jen

Hi Jen, We are coming to Italy in Sept. What would be your advise on budget hotels or guest houses. We are flying into Genoa(2 nites) then going to Cinque Terre (2 nites) Then onto Rome. (4 nights.) Thank you, Jim

All my suggested hotels are in the post above.

Hi Jen, We are traveling to Italy in Sept. 2019. We are flying into Genoa staying 2 nights then heading to Cinque Terre. We are planning to spend two days and exploring the 5 villages. Where would you suggest we stay in Cinque Terre? After Cinque Terre we head to a timeshare near Arezzo. Thank you for your advice, Jim

Hi Jim, Thanks for your message. I suggest as I mention above that you stay in Le Spezia which is just outside of Cinque Terre. It is cheaper and very easy to access all the towns from there. Cheers Jen

Greeitngs Jen,

We booked our 15 days trip in Italy arriving in Rome on September 20th and returning (from Rome) on October 5th.

What itinerary would you suggest given that we are obligated to come back to Rome for our return flight?

This is our first time in Italy.

Thank you so much for your input!

Francis Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Hi Francis, You can stick with the same itinerary, just on the last day take the train back to Rome. Make sure you leave plenty of time to get to the airport if doing this on the day of your flight. Otherwise take the train the day before and stay and extra night in Rome. Cheers Jen

Thanks Jen!!!

Hello, I’m going to Italy the last 2 weeks of June. I’m starting in Venice then going to Meta for 2 nights. I want to go through Cinque Terre then spend some time in Florence, Rome and Dolomites. Is there a way to go through Cinque Terre from the south then go straight to the Dolomites? I’ve heard it’s best to rent a car to go to the Dolomites. Thanks! Great blog!

Hi Elena, You’ll be able to take a train from Le Spezia if hiring a car isn’t for you. You may need to make a change of train during the journey but that is very easy to do in Italy. Cheers Jen

I love your itineraries! We are traveling to Austria for an event for 9 days and following this up with Italy for our 25th anniversary. We have never been to either country before. We plan to leave Vienna on the morning of the 2nd and fly home out of Rome on the afternoon of the 11th.

Our plan is: 2 nights(2,3) – Cinque Terre( Monterosso(old town)) (either train from Vienna to Montorosso or fly to Milan and train to Montorosso??) 4 nights Sienna(4,5,6,7)with: 1- day & 1/2 in Sienna 1 -day trip into Florence to see the market and a couple sights 1- day rent a car to visit a few small tuscan towns i.e. Voltera, Montecino? 3 nights Rome(8,9,10) Fly home afternoon of 11th

What do you think and do you have any suggestions, I’m really not sure (We are thinking Sienna as a base vs Florence as we will have a lot of a large city with Rome right after.)

thanks so much, Jan

Hi Jan, That sounds like a great trip and your plan definitely makes sense to me. I like that you will be basing yourself in Sienna instead of Florence, there is a lot to see in Tuscany. Cheers Jen

hi Jen, I am traveling to Italy in may of 2020 with your two week itinerary, and I have already purchased air line tickets. Should I book the hotels now… for each of the nights needed? also, should I book my train tickets now as well? also, i have downloaded to my phone both.. Rail Europe and Rail Planner..do they work together?

just need your help on clarifying these questions for me.

Thanks Charlie

Hi Jen! Thank you for the amazing itinerary guides! I wish that i read this before my 16 Day Itinerary Italy trip last year because theres a lot of tips that i can use. Thank You again.

Hello Jen, Thanks for sharing your travel expertise and experience. We are planning our 1st trip to Italy, with 14 days to travel(not counting flight time) we arrive in Rome and leave from Milan; we like your itinerary but would like to make some adjustments: skip Assisi and add more night in Cinque Terre(its my husband must do) My question is can we book train from Cinque Terre to Venice? Im trying not to back track to Milan if I don’t have to. We appreciate and value your opinion.

Thanks for sharing this amazing Italy itinerary as I am going to Italy next week so it will help me a lot.

Hi Jen, I love your post, SO helpful! I am just starting to plan a trip to Italy in September or October of 2020. There will be 4 adults. The cities I would like to visit are Florence, Rome, Naples, the Amalfi coast and Sicily. I’m also interested in Malta (I just did my dna and found out I’m 27% Malta) but if the costs are high for that island I will omit it. We plan to be there two weeks. Would you have suggestions on how much time to spend in each place? Also what cities to stay in so that we can easily access the other locations? We do not want to be moving hotels every two or three nights. Any other info would be very helpful. Thank you, sue

Hello Jen Your itinerary is fantastic. We are taking our 10 children from Australia to Italy for 2 weeks in June July. and will pretty much follow your itinerary. Should we get eurail passes or just book trains when we get there ? The passes seem pretty expensive for 12 people.

Thanks Bill! 10 kids, wow, that is going to be a big trip for you all. If you are going to follow the itinerary exactly then it is likely that the pass will be the cheaper option. However if you do travel on the slower trains then it may work out cheaper as the slower the train the cheaper the ticket.

Thank you for this wonderful article. It was exactly what I was looking for. My husband and I spent our 30th anniversary in Italy. We flew into Naples, went to Positano by private driver, and then took the train from Naples to Rome, then to Florence, then to Venice. We hope to return in 5 years for our 50th anniversary. I told my husband I’d like to travel by train to all the parts of Italy we haven’t seen. That would be Assisi, Cinque Terre & Milan from your two-week itinerary. Would it be best to fly into Milan and travel south? How would we add Sicily and do you recommend any of the east coast of Italy?

The terrific post with an itinerary is excellent. I appreciate you sharing this very useful information.

Hi Jen, I would love to organise a trip to Italy with my husband and daughter. We are in our 60s and my daughter in her 30. I have to ask, is it safe to travel on your own in Italy? Regards Mary

Hi Mary It is absolutely 100% safe. You should always take precautions when you travel because you are in an unfamilar place. I have never had any safety concerns in Italy.

I first left this comment in March 2022 but never received a reply: Thank you for this wonderful article. It was exactly what I was looking for. My husband and I spent our 30th anniversary in Italy. We flew into Naples, went to Positano by private driver, and then took the train from Naples to Rome, then to Florence, then to Venice. We hope to return in 5 years for our 50th anniversary. I told my husband I’d like to travel by train to all the parts of Italy we haven’t seen. That would be Assisi, Cinque Terre & Milan from your two-week itinerary. Would it be best to fly into Milan and travel south? How would we add Sicily and do you recommend any of the east coast of Italy?

Hi Jen, How would recommend incorporating the Amalfi coast into this trip ?

Hi Kelly, You could definitely add the Amalfi Coast to the trip after Rome as it is easy to get to by train.

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One-week Italy by train itinerary

Posted on Last updated: October 2, 2023

Explore Italy by train in just one week on this rail itinerary packed with culture, history, food and wine as you travel across the country from Venice to Sicily via Florence, Rome, Naples and Sorrento.

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Feast on fabulous Italian culture, history, food and wine on this journey across Italy by train. This rail trip takes you from the top to the toe of Italy in one week, sampling some of the highlights of one of my favourite countries in the world along the way.

Starting among the canals of Venice, you’ll head south to experience Renaissance art in Florence, 28 centuries of history in Rome, delicious pizza in Naples, sunset views in Sorrento and temples and beaches in Sicily. This Italian rail itinerary will show you which trains to take, how much they cost, how to book and what to see and do at each stop.

Day 1: Venice

Start your Italy by train adventure with a full day in Venice. You might have to dodge the crowds at St Mark’s Square, the Doges Palace and Rialto Bridge, but Venice still has plenty of charm to go around. Climb to the top of the Campanile for a bird’s eye view of the city from its tallest point, admire the Bridge of Sighs and watch the gondoliers in action.

You’re guaranteed to get lost in Venice’s confusing maze of canals and bridges, so embrace it and see what you can discover – a tucked-away chapel, crumbling palazzo or shady square to stop in for an Aperol Spritz and some tasty cicchetti bar snacks.

Venice is built on 118 islands, so take to the water to explore, whether in a traditional gondola or on one of the vaporetto public water buses which shuttle people around the city and out to the islands – choose from Lido with its sandy beach, Murano with its glass-makers, Burano with its brightly painted houses or Torcello with its historic cathedral.

Where to stay in Venice: Live like a Doge for the night in a restored 12th-century palace – without too much of a regal price tag – at the Hotel Antico Doge *, close to the Rialto Bridge. Inside the hotel’s lavish interiors feature antique furniture, original paintings, chandeliers, gilt mirrors and jewel-coloured brocade fabrics.

Day 2: Venice > Florence

Early the next morning, take a 2-hour high-speed Frecciarossa train to the Tuscan capital Florence, departing Venezia San Lucia at 07.26 and arriving into Florence Santa Maria Novella at 09.39. Then spend rest of your day in Florence exploring the city (if you need to store your bags, there’s a left luggage office near the station at 1a Via Valfonda).

The birthplace of the Renaissance is heaven for art and architecture lovers, with its cobbled streets, grand palazzi , frescoed churches, museums and galleries. Admire artworks by Carvaggio and da Vinci at the Uffizi Gallery ( book in advance * if possible as queues are crazy in high season) or visit Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia.

Climb up the 436 steps to the top of the Duomo or check out the views over Florence’s rooftops from the Piazzale Michelangelo. Or cross the River Arno on the city’s most famous bridge – the Ponte Vecchio, a covered bridge lined with shops dating back to 1350. And try fresh local produce at San Lorenzo Market, the city’s oldest and largest food market.

Where to stay in Florence: The 4-star Hotel Santa Maria Novella * is only five minutes’ walk from the train station. Its 71 rooms are spread across three townhouses, and come with marble bathrooms and splashes of colour. There’s also a sauna and gym, a bar and a rooftop terrace which looks down on the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella.

Day 3: Florence > Rome

The following day, take a short 90-minute train journey to Rome. High-speed trains run from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station to Rome Termini around every 15 minutes, so you can decide how early a start you want to make. There’s so much to see in Rome that one day is never going to be enough, so choose a few highlights to focus on.

This audioguide walking tour * takes you through some of the city’s iconic landmarks, from Piazza del Popolo to the Colosseum. Explore more Roman sites at the Pantheon and Roman Forum. Or head to a another country with an afternoon in Vatican City, where you can admire artworks at St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums.

Tick off some of the classic Roman experiences – throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, listen to street performers in Piazza Navona and stroll through the gardens of Villa Borghese. Or head across the River Tiber to the bohemian neighbourhood of Trastavere with its boutique shops and terrace bars – perfect for a sunset aperitivo .

Where to stay in Rome: The eco-friendly Beehive is a luxury hostel close to Rome Termini station, with a mix of dorms and private rooms with shared or en-suite bathrooms, a courtyard garden and cosy lounge. The friendly owners also run a bagel business and organise communal dinners, aperitivo evenings and cookery classes.

Day 4: Rome > Naples > Sorrento

Follow the coast south on the 70-minute high-speed train journey to the gritty city of Naples, departing Rome Termini at 08.00 and arriving at Naples Centrale at 09.13. Store your bags at the station for the day and explore the historic buildings of the centro storico before lunch – Naples is famous for its food and is where pizza was first created.

Then head underground to explore the network of catacombs and wartime shelters underneath the city streets. Or visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale to see some of the archaeological treasures unearthed from sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Next catch a train to from Naples Garibaldi station (located beneath Naples Centrale) to Sorrento. It takes around 70 minutes by Circumvesuviana local train or 45 minutes on the Campania Express tourist service (which only runs from April–October).

Circumvesuviana trains are fairly basic and can get pretty busy, but the views of Mount Vesuvius and out across the Bay of Naples make up for it. Campania Express trains come with a few more extra frills like air conditioning and luggage storage.

Aim to arrive into Sorrento in time for sunset and head to the clifftop Villa Communale Park where you can watch the sun dip down into the bay before dinner. And make sure to leave room for the amazing local gelato from Gelateria Davide.

Where to stay in Sorrento: If you feel like splashing out, the uber-stylish Maison La Minervetta * is built into the cliffs above the port of Marina Grande, just outside the centre of Sorrento. Owned by an interior designer, it mixes whitewash and splashes of colour, with multiple terraces to soak up the view – one with a whirlpool bath – and a private beach.

Read more: Sirens and sunsets: The best things to do in Sorrento

Day 5: Day trip from Sorrento

Spend the next day exploring Sorrento or head out into the Bay of Naples, with a good range of day trips to choose from. You can take the Circumvesuviana train north to visit the ruined Roman cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii , which were buried and preserved underneath metres of volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.

It takes 25 minutes to reach Pompeii Scavi or 45 minutes to Ercolano Scavi. Or you can catch a bus from either station to Vesuvio National Park. Once you arrive it’s a 20-minute walk to the edge of the crater for steaming vents and panoramic views.

Or take a boat from Sorrento and explore some of this beautiful stretch of coastline’s islands and cliffside towns. Ferries run along the Amalfi Coast * to the towns of Positano and Amalfi. Or you can visit the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida and go shopping with the A-list, visit the dazzling Blue Grotto sea cave or soak in thermal baths.

Read more: 9 of the best day trips from Sorrento

Day 6: Sorrento > Sicily

Make an early start for a long travel day to Sicily. First take the Circumvesuviana train from Sorrento back to Naples, allowing time to change stations before catching the 09.50 InterCity train from Naples Centrale south along the coast to Sicily.

It’s one of Europe’s most unusual train journeys as the whole train gets on board the ferry for the short journey across the Straits of Messina to Sicily. Once you’re back on land, the train carries on through Sicily where you have a choice of final destination.

There’s the resort town of Taormina (arrival 16.40) where you can visit the Greek amphitheatre and relax on the beach at Isola Bella with a lemony granita (crushed ice). Or you can carry on to Catania (arrival 17.25) where you can explore the city’s spectacular Baroque architecture, shop the street markets and learn to cook like a Catanian.

The train splits into two sections in Sicily, so as well as heading south to Taormina and Catania, you could also head east to the city of Palermo (arrival 19.25). Palermo is Sicily’s capital, a buzzing city famous for its imposing cathedral, puppet theatre shows, lavish Teatro Massimo opera house and the creepy catacombs with their mummified bodies.

Where to stay in Sicily: In Taormina, the small but perfectly formed Hotel Taodomus * in the heart of the historic centre comes with a small terrace and honesty bar. In Catania, the historic 4-star Palace Catania * has a knockout view of Mount Etna from its roof terrace and restaurant. Or in Palermo, the Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel * is close to the cathedral with a terrace, outdoor pool and some rooms with balcony spa baths.

Read more: Churches and cannoli: The best things to do in Catania

Day 7: Sicily

Spend the final day of your Italy by train trip seeing more of Sicily – and make sure to eat a few cannoli before you leave. If you’re flying back home, both Palermo and Catania have international airports which are connected to each city by bus. Or you can pre-book a transfer to either airport with an English-speaking driver though Welcome Pickups .*

If you’ve got more time to spare, there’s plenty more to see in Sicily – you can climb Mount Etna, visit the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, take a boat out to the volcanic Aeolian Islands, explore the Greek and Roman ruins in Siracusa and hike through the Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro nature reserve.

Or if you fancy adding another country onto your trip, ferries run between Sicily and Malta once or twice a day. Take a train or bus to Pozzallo in the south-east of Sicily, where the ferry takes around 90 minutes to reach the harbour in Valletta .

How much does it cost?

When you’re planning a European rail trip, you can either book individual tickets or get a railpass, which can be a better deal if you’re under 28, want more flexibility or are booking late. Here’s how the prices break down for the two different options on this route.

Individual tickets

Ticket prices vary depending on how early you book, with a limited number of cheap tickets available. So book as early as possible (on most routes you can book 3–4 months in advance) but beware these tickets are non-transferable so you’re tied to a specific train. Using the cheapest fares, the cost of trains on this route starts at €79 per person.

• Venice > Florence: from €19.90
• Florence > Rome: from €19.90
• Rome > Naples: from €9.90
• Naples > Sorrento > Naples: €9 (can’t be booked in advance)
• Naples > Sicily: from €19.90

The railpass option

There are also various rail passes available through InterRail (for European residents) and Eurail (for non-European residents), which cover individual countries or the whole region and are valid for different periods of time, varying from four days to three months.

The Italy by train itinerary involves four travel days in one country, so the best option is the One Country Italy pass for 4 travel days within 1 month . This pass costs €153 for adults, €126 for youths (aged 12–27) or €138 for seniors (aged 60+) in second class.

As well as the pass, you also need to pay an extra compulsory reservation fee if you’re using Italy’s high-speed, long-distance trains or sleeper services. For this trip, the extra fees come to €42, broken down as below, meaning the overall railpass cost starts from €168.

• Venice > Florence: €10
• Florence > Rome: €10
• Rome > Naples: €10
• Naples > Sorrento > Naples: €9 (Circumvesuviana trains aren’t covered by railpass)
• Naples > Sicily: €3

Reservations can be made at any train station or online through the InterRail/Eurail reservations service for a fee of €2. I’ve recommended the quickest and easiest routes. But you can often avoid reservation fees by taking local trains which usually don’t require reservations – though they’re likely to be slower with more changes along the way.

How to book

There are a variety of websites where you can book European train journeys, but often the best deals are though the official railway company sites for each country, which is Trenitalia for Italy. The site is available in English, but you need to use Italian place names (so that’s Venezia instead of Venice, Firenze instead of Florence, Napoli instead of Naples, etc).

You can also book tickets for train travel in Italy with Omio * or The Trainline . The advantage is these sites are in English, you can see prices in €, £ or $, use international credit cards and print or use mobile tickets, but they do both charge a small booking fee.

Don’t want to do it yourself? You can also book this One-week Italy by train itinerary * as a package through our partners Byway, the world’s first flight-free holiday platform, which includes transport and accommodation.

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Wednesday 23rd of March 2022

Coming in July. Can’t wait to use your suggestions.

Lucy Dodsworth

Thursday 24th of March 2022

Fantastic, hope you have a wonderful trip!

Michelle (@littlewanderblog)

Monday 18th of January 2021

Great article! This trip is one of my bucket list ventures! I once went to Rome to Venice on the train, spending 3 nights in each place, but definitely would love all the sights listed on this one! Michelle

Monday 25th of January 2021

Thanks Michelle, hope we can both get to Italy again before too long!

Jan (@Chimptrips)

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Hi Lucy - This sounds like a great trip and a good way to see lots of Italy. We had planned to take the train from Rome to Naples at Easter, but will just have to go another time! Jan

Wednesday 3rd of June 2020

Ah hope you get to do the trip sometime soon, that's a great journey!

More From Forbes

Italy’s orient express la dolce vita train debuts in 2024.

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Orient Express La Dolce Vita.

The launch of new luxury trains shows no sign of slowing down, thanks to an obsession with slow travel, an appetite for nostalgia, and a taste for lavish interiors that harken back to the golden days of rail travel. Nothing epitomizes that better than the unveiling of the Orient Express La Dolce Vita later this year, a new “vintage-style” train that will travel around Italy on one—and two-night journeys.

The train is a partnership between the French hotel group Accor and the Italian luxury hospitality group Arsenale S.P.A., with a railway partnership with Trenitalia—Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato—and the Fondazione FS Italiane. Note that this Orient Express is a different company than the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, which is owned by Belmond, part of LVMH, and runs from London to Venice.

The design inspiration is La Dolce Vita, “The Sweet Life,” the name of the Italian décor, art, and architecture of the 1960s, made famous by Federico Fellini’s film of the same name. Dimorestudio, an architecture and design studio founded by Emiliano Salci and Britt Moran, was inspired by 20th-century Italian design masters such as Giò Ponti, Nanda Vigo, Gae Aulenti, and Osvaldo Borsani.

Suite onboard the Orient Express La Dolce Vita.

The 11-carriage train will carry just 62 guests. There are 12 deluxe wood-lined cabins, 18 master suites, and one "La Dolce Vita" suite. They will all feature double beds, a sofa, armchairs, and a private bathroom. All cabins will have room service available. The restaurant car will offer lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea. The Bar Car will feature live music, an aperitivo and antipasti buffet, after-dinner cocktails, and Italian wines.

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The itineraries have been designed to create exclusive travel experiences ranging north and south, giving glimpses of the Alps and the southern coastline. Most departures will leave from Rome, and journeys can include cities such as Milan, Florence, and Venice, as well as the island of Sicily, via the only passenger rail ferry in the world.

Restaurant on board the Orient Express La Dolce Vita.

Rome is the departure point for many of these rail trips. A new Orient Express La Dolce Vita Lounge will open at Rome Ostiense station to welcome passengers and provide refreshments. Fully staffed, it’s where passengers check in, check bags, and indicate travel preferences. The Lounge is where you will pick up boarding passes, cabin numbers, and baggage tags. After a day sightseeing in Rome, it’s good to know that there will be changing rooms with showers available before the journey begins.

Two-night journeys include Rome, Venice, and Portofino; Rome, Venice, and Siena; The Italian Transsiberian, Matera, and Palena; Palermo, Agrigento & Taormina: Sicly Through its Myths; and Rome & Nizza Monferrato: En Route to Truffles and Wine. Single-night journeys include Rome & Montalcino: En Route to Fine Wines and Rome, Maratea & Palermo: The Wonders of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The itineraries have been created in tandem with Orient Express’ first hotels, which will also debut in 2024: the Orient Express La Minerva in Rome and the Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice.

In 2025, La Dolce Vita is expected to add international routes to Paris, Istanbul, and Split on Croatia’s Adriatic Coast.

Reservations are currently open for booking. Fares start at $2,700 per person per night in a deluxe cabin and $4,000 per person per night in a suite. They include accommodation, the table d’hôte, selected wine and spirits, mineral water, soft drinks, tea and coffee, onboard entertainment, excursions, and all applicable taxes. Some premium wines and spirits and some à la carte dishes are subject to an extra charge. Visit Orient Express La Dolce Vita for more information.

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How to Book Italy's Orient Express La Dolce Vita Train

F or more than a century, the Orient Express has captured travelers' imaginations as a grand European hotel on rails, shuttling high society from Paris to Istanbul since 1883. The luxury train became the stuff of legend (as the "spies' express" ) and pop culture, be it in Bram Stoker's Dracula or Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express , while setting the standard for elevated transcontinental travel.

Sadly, the luxury of slow travel couldn't compete with high-speed rail and budget flights, reports The Guardian , prompting the final run of the original Orient Express line in 2009.

That is, until more recently. In the past several years, the legendary locomotive experience has witnessed a rebirth thanks to luxury hospitality brands that are breathing new life into the iconic rail journeys-including the forthcoming La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Italy, a joint venture of French hotel firm Accor and real-estate investment company Arsenale, together with Italy's Trenitalia Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane and Treni Turistici Italiani .

Starting in spring 2025, La Dolce Vita Orient Express will bring passengers to regions throughout Italy on itineraries that run between two and three days. There are nine itineraries to choose from (depending on the time of the year):

• Venice and Portofino
• Venice and Siena
• The Italian Trans-Siberian: Matera and Palena
• Rome to Montalcino
• Rome to Monferrato
• Southern Italy: Maratea and Palermo
• Palermo to Rome
• Sicily and the Mediterranean

Travelers can choose between 12 deluxe cabins and 18 suites, with prices starting at $3,800 per person for a deluxe cabin and at $5,100 per person for a suite.

As for the concept for the new La Dolce Vita Orient Express train, "The train pays tribute to the years of La Dolce Vita, a fantastic period of history, [and] to the artistic and cultural fervor of Italy in the 1960s," according to a press release. Dimorestudio dreamed up the midcentury-inspired design aboard the train's renovated carriages-think pops of terra-cotta paint, tongue-and-groove ceilings, and brass accents galore. Dining aboard La Dolce Vita trains will be a sophisticated affair as well: Travelers will enjoy exclusive recipes created by master Italian chefs who use local ingredients, while sipping award-winning Italian wine. There will, of course, also be a lounge and bar, as well as entertainment, "all boldly celebrating the art, design, and creativity of the 1960s and 1970s," the release stated.

Upon departure from Italy's Rome Ostiense station, La Dolce Vita passengers will have access to their own lounge and a "relaxing pre-boarding experience."

The trains will cross about 10,000 miles of railway lines, 4,400 of which are not electrified and are historic routes traversing less-frequented parts of the countryside. Passengers will get their share of landscape gazing (alpine mountains and sandy southern beaches) and of metropolitan centers like Venice and Rome. "We are thrilled to officially open the doors to a new era of travel with La Dolce Vita Orient Express. This endeavor embodies the essence of exquisite exploration, where sophistication meets adventure," Orient Express CEO Gilda Perez-Alvarado said in a press statement.

Not to be confused with the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express , which is currently owned by Belmond, part of LVMH, and runs from London to Venice, La Dolce Vita Orient Express is the latest incarnation of the original train line.

How to book La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Starting on April 2, 2024, travelers in the United States and Canada can call (833) 661-3080 to book their journey with La Dolce Vita Orient Express. And as of April 24, 2024, bookings will be available online on the La Dolce Vita website .

This story was originally published in December 2021; it was updated on March 19, 2024, to include current information.

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A child is between the ages of 4 and 11 years.

Many trains in Italy and beyond offer a discounted fare between 30% & 50% off the Adult fare for Children.

The child offer is now extended to children ages 4 to 14 years when traveling on high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciabianca, Frecciargento, InterCity, InterCityNotte, EuroCity, and Thello trains. Your child will be assigned his/her own seat and children must be accompanied by an Adult when traveling on this offer.

Regional trains will still offer discounted fares for children ages 4 to 11 years.

Infants & Children 3 & under travel for free and will share a seat with the adult companion.

This option is for customers that have already purchased a Eurail Pass or InterRail Pass and wish to reserve seats or sleeping berths. Learn more about rail passes.

Most high-speed and long-distance trains require seat reservations. The fare rules for each train indicate whether seat reservations are necessary.

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If you’re planning on visiting multiple destinations in Italy there is no better way to travel than by train. And with a little planning, you can avoid long lines at the train station, especially to  popular routes , by booking your tickets before you travel with ItaliaRail. 

Train schedules are usually released 60-120 days before departure. If you are looking for a train schedule for a later date you can request to be informed when the route becomes available by completing the Find Train Tickets in Italy form above and submitting your email address. 

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The main hall of every train station in Europe contains a departure and arrival board. This board will display all the information you need to catch your train including, platform number, stops made en route, and the final destination. You can get a free train schedule at most stations. These "mini-timetables" typically list departures and arrivals between two specific points or regions. Look for them near the rail information centers. An additional source for detailed schedules is the  Rail Information Center . By using computerized reservation systems, the Rail Information Center staff can help you find a schedule or route to the city of your choice. Best of all the service is free.