Italy Train Travel Guide: Types, Routes & Booking Tips

In Italy, trains seamlessly connect major cities and top attractions, making rail travel one of the most convenient and comfortable ways for tourists to explore the country. We have received such inquiries frequently over the years and have helped many clients plan unforgettable Italy tours by train.

From our experience, planning a smooth itinerary on your own isn't always easy, as choosing the right routes, managing transfers, and handling ticket details can quickly draw a headache. That's why we have put together this breakdown to guide you through planning your perfect Italy train travel. Read on and get inspired.

What Is the Difference Between Trains in Italy

Train travels in Italy mainly have 3 options: high-speed trains, intercity trains, and regional trains, which vary in speed, coverage, and price.

High-Speed Trains (Le Frecce)

Frecciarossa (Red Arrow): This is Italy's premier train, known for being the fastest and most comfortable. It reaches speeds of up to 300 km/h and connects Italy's major cities. The trains offer air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and outlets.

Frecciargento (Silver Arrow): With a speed up to 250 km/h, it combines high-speed and traditional lines, connecting with key cities such as Rome, Venice, Verona, and the southern regions of Puglia. Since its luggage space can be more limited than the Frecciarossa, it's a good idea to opt for the latter if you have a lot of bags.

Frecciabianca (White Arrow): The maximum speed is around 200 km/h. It runs on conventional lines, primarily covering major cities like Rome and Milan, as well as many secondary cities and coastal towns. It is the most economical of the 3 types of trains.

Frecciarossa High-Speed Train in Italy

Intercity Trains

Intercity trains have a top speed of 160 km/h, and their tickets are cheaper than high-speed trains. They are an ideal choice for connecting small and medium-sized cities, such as Rome - Livorno - Pisa - La Spezia - Genoa - Milan. Intercity trains are equipped with air conditioning and basic facilities, and they usually sell snacks and drinks, but you are also welcome to bring your own food.

Regional Trains

Regional trains stop frequently, covering small towns and villages, making them the main option for short trips. Their tickets are cheap, and seats can't be booked in advance, so you can board any one you want. However, they run slowly (up to 100 km/h) and have basic facilities. You may have to stand if you don't get a seat, which is inconvenient when carrying heavy luggage. For a more comfortable journey, a private car is a better choice.

How to Choose Seats on Italian Trains

High-speed trains (take Frecciarossa as an example) offer 4 classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive.

• Standard: The most budget-friendly option, providing all the basic facilities you need, and most are arranged in a face-to-face layout. Each service typically has four standard carriages.
• Premium: You will enjoy more comfortable seats and a more spacious luggage room than in Standard. There is space for luggage between the seat backs, and you receive a complimentary welcome drink upon boarding.
• Business: Offering spacious seats and a tranquil environment, this class is designed for peace and quiet. With glass dividers between rows, it's the perfect place to read or get some rest.
• Executive: There is usually only one executive carriage per train, and it is the most spacious and comfortable space on the entire one. Each carriage has only 10 seats and includes a meeting room for 5 people (requires booking when purchasing the ticket). It's the ideal choice for business travelers. You'll also receive free food, drinks, and Wi-Fi.

On Intercity trains, seats are divided into First and Second Class (also known as Standard Class). First Class is more spacious, while Second Class is more affordable. Regional trains mostly have only second class, and since there are no seat reservations, you may have to stand if the carriage is full.

Italian Regional Train Seats

How to Buy Italy Train Tickets

Italo and Trenitalia are the 2 primary high-speed train operators in Italy. The most convenient way to buy tickets is through their official websites and mobile apps, both of which are user-friendly, available in English, and accept credit card payments. You can also buy tickets at the station using the self-service machines or at a ticket counter. Just remember that the red self-service machines are for Italo tickets and the green ones are for Trenitalia.

Please note that if you have a regional ticket, you must validate it using the orange or green machines on the platform before you get on the train. If you don't, your ticket will be considered invalid, and you may face a fine.

If you are a first-timer to Italy, these kinds of travel details can be a little tricky and can easily disrupt your trip. Compared to booking tickets and arranging the itinerary on your own, choosing Odynovo's tailor-made service means you just need to relax and enjoy. We will not only help you to book tickets for your train travel in Italy but also create personalized route, make hotel reservations, and arrange professional guides, drivers, and vehicles for you.

Major Train Stations in Italy

• Rome (Lazio Region): Roma Termini
• Florence (Tuscany Region): Firenze Santa Maria Novella
• Milan (Lombardy Region): Milano Centrale
• Venice (Veneto Region): Venezia Santa Lucia
• Naples (Campania Region): Napoli Centrale

Popular Italy Train Travel Routes

Rome - Florence - Venice

It is the most classic Italy train travel route. Take a high-speed train from Rome to Florence in 1.5 hours, then continue to Venice in 2 hours after a few days' explorations. The total ticket price is approximately 110 USD - 150 USD. In these 3 cities, you can experience the Roman Colosseum, Vatican City, Renaissance art and architecture, and the canal scenery of Venice.

Florence - La Spezia - Milan - Lake Como

From Florence to La Spezia, the trip takes about 2.5 hours. La Spezia is the gateway to the famous Cinque Terre. From there, travel by rail for about 4 hours to Milan to experience its fashion and iconic cathedral. Finally, ride for an hour from Milan to Varenna Esino station, and then a ferry to your final destination to enjoy the scenic beauty of Castello di Vezio and the lake. The total train fare for this route is approximately 50 USD - 90 USD.

Milan - Florence - Rome - Naples

Take a high-speed train from Milan to Florence in about 1.5 hours, then continue for another 1.5 hours to Rome, and finally arrive in Naples in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The total cost for this entire route is approximately 147 USD - 193 USD. This journey allows you to visit Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, the Florence Duomo, and ancient Roman ruins.

These routes involve some transfers, which can be stressful or waste time if you are unfamiliar with the stations. However, with Odynovo, you won't need to research timetables yourself. We will arrange a route with smooth connections for you.

Practical Tips for Italy Train Travel

• Book your tickets in advance: It is recommended that you book your tickets at least one month ahead (with the exception of non-reservable regional trains) to get better deals. Last-minute tickets are often more expensive.
• Arrive at the station early: It's a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to give yourself enough time to confirm your information, check in, and find your carriage.
• Check the departure board: At the station, you can check the digital departure board for your train's information, including the train number, destination, departure time, and platform number. Make sure you get to the right platform and carriage on time.
• Bring water and snacks: Although some trains offer dining cars, it is recommended that you bring some water and snacks to ensure you are comfortable on a long-distance trip.
• Be aware of strikes: Italian train strikes do happen, but they are generally announced in advance, and the basic service is usually maintained on major routes. Strikes can last up to 24 hours (or less), so it's wise to check for any announcements before your trip to prevent any surprises.