The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Italy by Train with Trenitalia Vacations

There truly is no better way to discover Italy than by train. Trenitalia's arrow-headed trains are invitingly comfortable and run like clockwork, connecting nearly every single quaint town and iconic city, from the city center to city center. Have you been thinking about traveling from Venice's picturesque canals to the land of the Romans and the Renaissance? What about happily strolling along cobblestone streets eating gelato in Florence? This—and so much more—is possible with Railbookers. Admire Michelangelo's David, take in the incredible views of Lake Maggiore in the foothills of the Alps, visit the mesmerizing villages of Lake Garda, or relax in sun-drenched Sicily and explore places only found on the enchanting Amalfi Coast.

With a simple change in direct city center terminals, you can travel to more than 200 destinations throughout Italy.

Here's Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Italy by Train

Trenitalia Basics

• Seamless city center to city center travel
• No lengthy and expensive transfer fees to and from the airport
• Up to four service levels (Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive) with options for every budget
• New, comfortable state-of-the-art train with onboard entertainment and free wi-fi
• Fast and convenient: there are no check-in procedures before boarding
• There are no baggage fees or weight limits. If you can carry it, you can bring it!

Trenitalia Trains

Frecciarossa

Destinations include: Florence, Venice, Turin, Milan, Bologna, Rome, Naples, and Salerno.

Standard Class: Offers a wonderful value for travelers on a budget but seeking a comfortable train journey. Features 2-2 seating and a catering trolley for the purchase of food, hot and cold beverages, and alcohol.

Premium Class: A higher level of comfort and services than the Standard level of service. Features 2-2 seating, reclining leather armchairs, welcome service (snacks, choice of beverages, and a complimentary morning newspaper), your choice of dining options, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and meals served directly to your seat.

Business Class: Ideal for travelers seeking the comfort, luxury and high-speed of a Trenitalia train. Features 1-2 seating, reclining leather armchairs, welcome service (snacks, choice of beverages, and a complimentary morning newspaper), you choice of dining options, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, crystal partitions for increased privacy, Silence Area for an extra layer of peace and quiet, dedicated seats for disabled persons, and meals served directly to your seat.

Executive Class: Located in the first car of the train, Executive Class features the highest standards of quality. With a redesigned carriage, you can relax in style en route to your destination. Features 180-degree rotating leather reclining armchairs, 1-1 seating with almost 60" between individual seats, adjustable leg rests, dedicated attendant, conference room, free access to the Freccia Lounge in train stations prior to boarding, gourmet meal served directly to your seat, open bar, and complimentary magazines and newspapers.

Frecciargento

Destinations include: Rome to Venice, Verona, Bari, Lecce, and Lamezia Terme/Reggio Calabria. Comfort and speed effortlessly come together to provide a unique European experience on Frecciargento during any kind of journey. Features spacious First and Second Class seating arrangements, free complimentary welcome drink and newspaper in First Class, Wi-Fi access, air-conditioned carriages, and the option to purchase food, snacks, and beverages.

Frecciabianca

Destinations include: Udine to Trieste, Genoa to Rome, and Bari and Lecce. These trains connect regional cities on a single high-speed line, such as Lecce and Bari by way of Naples. Features spacious, comfortable ergonomic seating, air-conditioned, soundproofed carriages, and the option to purchase food, snacks, and beverages.

Travel Times

• Rome to Florence takes only 1 hour and 32 minutes
• Rome to Venice takes 3 hours and 45 minutes
• Rome to Naples takes 1 hour and 10 minutes
• Rome to Milan takes 2 hours and 55 minutes

City Train Stations

Rome: The main station in Rome is the Stazione Termini, which is walking distance from all the famous sights. Located on the outskirts of the city are Roma Ostiense and Roma Tiburtina stations.

Venice: The main station in Venice is Venice Santa Lucia, located on the banks of the Grand Canal and a short walking distance from the Rialto Bridge and St Mark's Square.

Florence: The main station in Florence is Firenze Santa Maria Novella (abbreviated as SMN) and is centrally located for ease of access to hotels and sightseeing.

Milan: The main station in Milan is Milano Centrale as well as Milan Porta Garibaldi.

Turin: The main station in Turin is Torino Porta Nuova, a very large terminus, or Torina Porta Susa.

Pisa: As a day trip from Florence, you'd use a local train. The Pisa Centrale station is only a short ways away (30 minute walk)  from the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, if you take a train to Pisa S. Rossore station, that walk will only be about five to 10 minutes.

Our Most Popular Itineraries

Grand Venice, Florence and Rome 

• Discover the charms and landmarks of three Italian gems on one scenic vacation along the rails. 

Venice and the Bernina Express 

• Take the most scenic route imaginable to Venice! Travel from Switzerland on the Bernina Express and wind through the spectacular Alpine scenery towards the warmth and magic of Italy. 

Grand European Tour 

• Take a Grand Tour of Europe by train, sampling six of the continent's best cities on this eleven-night vacation.

Rome and Sorrento

• Combine the cultural buzz of a city break with three nights of pure relaxation on the coast with this great holiday incorporating two dazzling Italian gems. 

Amalfi Coast via the Alps 

• Travel in style on this luxurious holiday to the beautiful Amalfi Coast via the fascinating cities of Geneva and Florence.