English
English
Language
Currency
Italy by train
- All aboard for an epic Europe trip! The Interrail Pass lets you ride in 1st class luxury while saving cash – perfect for those bucket-list journeys.
- Say hello to 33 countries and endless train rides with just one pass! From fast tracks to scenic routes, Europe’s coolest destinations are all yours.
- Choose between 15 or 22 days or 1 to 3 months of unlimited train hopping. Enjoy adjustable seats, and cabin service, and go wherever whimsy takes you.
- Welcome to hassle-free travel and install the Rail Planner app. Activate, scan at platforms, and waltz onto trains while others queue.
- All aboard for an epic Europe trip! The Interrail Pass lets you ride in 1st class luxury while saving cash – perfect for those bucket-list journeys.
- Say hello to 33 countries and endless train rides with just one pass! From fast tracks to scenic routes, Europe’s coolest destinations are all yours.
- Choose between 15 or 22 days or 1 to 3 months of unlimited train hopping. Enjoy adjustable seats, and cabin service, and go wherever whimsy takes you.
- Welcome to hassle-free travel and install the Rail Planner app. Activate, scan at platforms, and waltz onto trains while others queue.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: continuous use for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 months
- 1st class seats (individually adjustable, more legroom & cabin service)
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Your Interrail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings. Do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass is only sold to EU residents and cannot be used by non-European travelers or in the traveler's country of residence (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Say bonjour to stress-free travel! The Interrail Global Pass is your golden ticket to explore the continent without juggling multiple bookings.
- From Italy to France and Switzerland to Germany! Hop on major carriers, zoom on high-speed rails, or meander through scenic routes across 33 countries.
- Select 4, 5, 7, 10, or 15 days of unlimited train journeys. Relax in roomy seats, savor cabin service, and make every moment of your trip count.
- No more queue blues! Download the Rail Planner app, scan your pass, skip the lines, and catch your train.
- Say bonjour to stress-free travel! The Interrail Global Pass is your golden ticket to explore the continent without juggling multiple bookings.
- From Italy to France and Switzerland to Germany! Hop on major carriers, zoom on high-speed rails, or meander through scenic routes across 33 countries.
- Select 4, 5, 7, 10, or 15 days of unlimited train journeys. Relax in roomy seats, savor cabin service, and make every moment of your trip count.
- No more queue blues! Download the Rail Planner app, scan your pass, skip the lines, and catch your train.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: 4/5/7 days within 30 days or 10/15 days within 60 days after activation
- 1st class seats (individually adjustable, more legroom & cabin service)
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Your Interrail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings. Do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass is only sold to EU residents and cannot be used by non-European travelers or in the traveler's country of residence (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- 4/5/7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and 10/15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Budget-friendly Euro trips are here! The Eurail Global Flexible Pass lets you cross borders for less on the days you pick, anytime within the validity period.
- Travel through 33 European countries on trains that offer scenic views and high-speed Alpine adventures, all from the comfort of your 2nd class seat.
- Opt for 4/5/7-day pass with a 30-day validity or 10/15-day pass with a 60-day validity, with unlimited travel that lets you hop on and off trains freely.
- Scan your pass on the Rail Planner app for instant platform access, skipping ticket lines and starting your European journey with ease.
- Budget-friendly Euro trips are here! The Eurail Global Flexible Pass lets you cross borders for less on the days you pick, anytime within the validity period.
- Travel through 33 European countries on trains that offer scenic views and high-speed Alpine adventures, all from the comfort of your 2nd class seat.
- Opt for 4/5/7-day pass with a 30-day validity or 10/15-day pass with a 60-day validity, with unlimited travel that lets you hop on and off trains freely.
- Scan your pass on the Rail Planner app for instant platform access, skipping ticket lines and starting your European journey with ease.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: 4/5/7 days within 30 days or 10/15 days within 60 days after activation
- 2nd class seats
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Your Eurail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings – do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, as well as by some other nationalities, including the Russian Federation, Turkey & Iran.
- 4/5/7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and 10/15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Planning that dream Euro trip? The Eurail Pass lets you wander Europe at your own pace and make big savings without booking separate tickets.
- Unlock access to 33 European countries and major rail routes, from scenic rides to high-speed trains, soaking up Europe’s best views with just one pass.
- Enjoy train journeys with options for 15/22 days, or up to 3 months of continuous travel, allowing you to take as many trains, as often as you like!
- Download the Rail Planner app, activate your pass, and enjoy direct platform access without the hassle of waiting in long lines for tickets.
- Planning that dream Euro trip? The Eurail Pass lets you wander Europe at your own pace and make big savings without booking separate tickets.
- Unlock access to 33 European countries and major rail routes, from scenic rides to high-speed trains, soaking up Europe’s best views with just one pass.
- Enjoy train journeys with options for 15/22 days, or up to 3 months of continuous travel, allowing you to take as many trains, as often as you like!
- Download the Rail Planner app, activate your pass, and enjoy direct platform access without the hassle of waiting in long lines for tickets.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: Continuous use for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 months
- 2nd class seats
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Your Eurail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings. Do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, as well as by some other nationalities, including the Russian Federation, Turkey & Iran.
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Europe trip on the cards? Save big and see more with Interrail Global Pass and travel across the continent without the hassle of purchasing multiple tickets.
- 33 European countries await! Visit 40,000 destinations with access to major carriers, high-speed trains, and scenic routes.
- Grab this budget-friendly 2nd class ticket and pick a 4, 5, 7, 10, or 15-day pass for unlimited train rides with fellow travelers and families just like yours.
- Just download the Rail Planner app, scan your pass, and skip the long winding queues with your mobile pass.
- Europe trip on the cards? Save big and see more with Interrail Global Pass and travel across the continent without the hassle of purchasing multiple tickets.
- 33 European countries await! Visit 40,000 destinations with access to major carriers, high-speed trains, and scenic routes.
- Grab this budget-friendly 2nd class ticket and pick a 4, 5, 7, 10, or 15-day pass for unlimited train rides with fellow travelers and families just like yours.
- Just download the Rail Planner app, scan your pass, and skip the long winding queues with your mobile pass.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: 4/5/7 days within 30 days or 10/15 days within 60 days after activation
- 2nd class seats
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Your Interrail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings. Do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass is only sold to EU residents and cannot be used by non-European travelers or in the traveler's country of residence (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- 4/5/7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and 10/15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Europe calling? Answer with the Interrail Pass and say goodbye to booking headaches. Your wallet will thank you as you embark on your dream trip.
- One pass for the entire continent that connects you to major carriers, high-speed trains, and scenic routes across 40,000 locales and 33 countries.
- Tailor your trip with 2nd-class passes with 15 or 22 days, or go all out with 1, 2, or 3-month options – the choice is yours.
- Ditch the paper and download the Rail Planner app. After activation, scan at platforms, and breeze past ticket queues like a seasoned globetrotter.
- Europe calling? Answer with the Interrail Pass and say goodbye to booking headaches. Your wallet will thank you as you embark on your dream trip.
- One pass for the entire continent that connects you to major carriers, high-speed trains, and scenic routes across 40,000 locales and 33 countries.
- Tailor your trip with 2nd-class passes with 15 or 22 days, or go all out with 1, 2, or 3-month options – the choice is yours.
- Ditch the paper and download the Rail Planner app. After activation, scan at platforms, and breeze past ticket queues like a seasoned globetrotter.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: continuous use for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 months
- 2nd class seats
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
- Your Interrail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings. Do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass is only sold to EU residents and cannot be used by non-European travelers or in the traveler's country of residence (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Don't burn cash on multiple rail tickets! Get the affordable Eurail Global Flexible Pass, and travel anytime before the validity duration ends.
- Embark on a 33-country adventure across Europe and enjoy easy access to stunning train routes along the Alps, high-speed trains, and regional carriers.
- Select a 4/5/7-day pass with 30-day validity or a 10/15-day pass with 60-day validity, and enjoy 1st-class comfort, unlimited travel, and cabin service.
- Download the Rail Planner app instead of printing a pass. Just activate the pass, scan at the platform, and walk past the ticketing lines onto the coaches.
- Don't burn cash on multiple rail tickets! Get the affordable Eurail Global Flexible Pass, and travel anytime before the validity duration ends.
- Embark on a 33-country adventure across Europe and enjoy easy access to stunning train routes along the Alps, high-speed trains, and regional carriers.
- Select a 4/5/7-day pass with 30-day validity or a 10/15-day pass with 60-day validity, and enjoy 1st-class comfort, unlimited travel, and cabin service.
- Download the Rail Planner app instead of printing a pass. Just activate the pass, scan at the platform, and walk past the ticketing lines onto the coaches.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: 4/5/7 days within 30 days or 10/15 days within 60 days after activation
- 1st class seat
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Your Eurail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings – do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, as well as by some other nationalities, including the Russian Federation, Turkey & Iran.
- 4/5/7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and 10/15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Travel Europe in style and save money with the Eurail Global Continuous Pass, enjoying 1st class luxury and exploring every nook of the continent.
- Major regional carriers, high-speed trains, and scenic routes across 33 European countries are yours to discover with just one pass in hand.
- Pick from 15/22 days or up to 3 months of continuous travel, and hop on a train whenever the mood strikes. Plus, enjoy 1st-class seats and cabin service!
- Enjoy the simplicity of a digital pass – activate your Eurail pass by downloading the Rail Planner app, and directly access platforms at train stations.
- Travel Europe in style and save money with the Eurail Global Continuous Pass, enjoying 1st class luxury and exploring every nook of the continent.
- Major regional carriers, high-speed trains, and scenic routes across 33 European countries are yours to discover with just one pass in hand.
- Pick from 15/22 days or up to 3 months of continuous travel, and hop on a train whenever the mood strikes. Plus, enjoy 1st-class seats and cabin service!
- Enjoy the simplicity of a digital pass – activate your Eurail pass by downloading the Rail Planner app, and directly access platforms at train stations.
Inclusions
- Access to the rail network in 33 European countries
- Access to all major carriers, including regional, cross-border, scenic, night & high-speed trains
- Validity: Continuous use for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 months
- 1st class seats: Individually adjustable, more legroom & cabin service
- Discounts across Europe on top attractions, hotels & ferry trips
- Special rates for youths and seniors
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Your Eurail Pass is fully mobile! Activate it in the Rail Planner App using the Pass Number from your confirmation email.
- After activation, add your journey to get a QR code ticket in the app that must be presented to the inspectors at the station.
- Don’t forget to reserve seats for trains that require bookings—do it early via the Rail Planner app!
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased via the Rail Planner app at an additional cost.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, as well as by some other nationalities, including the Russian Federation, Turkey & Iran.
- The pass must be activated through the Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
Types of train passes in Italy
Trenitalia Pass
- Eligibility: Foreign nationals residing outside Italy
- Pass coverage: 3/4/7/10-journeys on Trenitalia trains
- Pass options: Easy, Comfort, or Executive Passes with varying access to 1st & 2nd class
- Recommended tickets: 3-Journey Trenitalia Pass | 4-Journey Trenitalia Pass | 10-Journey Trenitalia Pass
Eurail Pass
- Eligibility: Non-European residents
- Pass coverage: Valid on trains across 33 European countries and/or all trains within Italy
- Pass options: Customize your pass with Global/One-Country, Flexi/Continuous, and First/Second Class pass options
- Recommended tickets: Eurail Flexible Global Pass: 33 European Countries | | Eurail Continuous Global Pass: 33 European Countries
Interrail Pass
- Eligibility: European residents
- Pass coverage: Access trains across 33 European countries and/or all trains within Italy
- Pass options: Tailor the pass to your itinerary with Global/One-Country, Flexi/Continuous, and First/Second Class pass variants
- Recommended tickets: Interrail Flexible Global 2nd Class Pass: 33 European Countries | Interrail Continuous Global 1st Class Pass: 33 European Countries | Interrail Flexible Global 1st Class Pass: 33 European Countries
Why buy a train pass in Italy?
Pass perks & travel tips
- Great connectivity: Thanks to the extensive coverage of the efficient Italian railway, rail passes get you to even the remote corners of the country.
- Pass customization: Tailor the pass to suit your needs and enjoy a personalized travel experience.
- Convenient: Bid farewell to long ticket queues and the anxiety of last-minute purchases with the digital Italy train passes.
- Cost-Effective: Rail passes spare you from service charges associated with multiple ticket purchases, and are more economical for numerous train journeys.
- Flexibility: Whether you're planning meticulously or taking spontaneous trips, an Italy train pass offers the flexibility to accommodate both approaches.
- Reduced pricing policies: Special pricing is available for youth, children, and senior citizens, making Italian train passes more budget-friendly.
- Sustainable: Embrace a more eco-friendly mode of transportation by opting for train travel with Italian rail passes. Additionally, train travel implies no early check-ins, baggage restrictions, and navigating commute to out-of-town airports.
- Plan your trip: Planning can significantly reduce stress and prevent last-minute mishaps. Maximize the benefits of your train pass by determining your desired trains and their requirements ahead of time.
- Seat reservations: Depending on the type of pass, seat reservations may or may not be included.
- Boarding trains: Learning Italian station terminology will be a lifesaver. For example, "Binario" is Italian for platform. Refer to the carrier's website, primarily Trenitalia, for train timings and specific requirements.
- Arrive early: Given the size of train stations, allow ample time to navigate platforms, especially if you need to change trains. Regional services work on a first come first served basis, so arriving early helps you land a seat.
- Travel light: Packing light is advisable for easier mobility. If you do have luggage, smaller bags are better as they easily fit into the overhead luggage racks.
- Class of travel: Consider investing in first-class passes if you travel in trains for longer periods as they feature more comfortable seating and extra space.
How to choose a train pass for Italy?
Consider your residency status, travel plans, and comfort preferences when selecting an Italy rail pass.
Step 1: Primary pass choice
Step 2: Choice based on itinerary
Step 3: Choice based on duration
Step 4: Choice based on comfort needs
Your place of residence and the number of train rides you intend to take decide the selection between Interrail, Eurail, and Trenitalia Passes. Ensure you have a valid proof of residence when choosing any of these passes.
Trenitalia Pass
- Best suited for: Foreign nationals residing outside Italy with a rough idea of the number of intended train rides
Eurail Pass
- Best suited for: Non-European residents traveling by train
Interrail Pass
- Best suited for: European residents commuting by trains
If you chose Eurail or Interrail, you must then choose between a Global Pass or a One-Country Pass.
Global Pass
- Best suited for: Exploring Italy & other European destinations
- Travel across 33 European nations including Italy
One-Country Pass
- Best suited for: Tourists exploring Italy alone
- Covers train journeys in a specific nation
*Trenitalia Passes are inherently one-country passes as they cater to domestic train journeys within Italy.
Make this choice easier by creating a rough travel plan
Flexi Pass
- Best suited for: Passengers with plans for paced-out train rides
- Choice available for Interrail & Eurail users
- Valid for 4/5/7/10/15 random days within a period
Continuous Pass
- Best suited for: Passengers with plans for more frequent train connections
- Choice available for Interrail & Eurail users
- Valid continuously for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 months once activated
3/4/7/10-Journey Trenitalia Passes
- Best suited for: Passengers with a fixed number of train journeys
- Choice available for Trenitalia Pass holders
- Choose between 3,4,7 or 10 journeys with a set timeframe
Your privacy requirements, travel style, and budget considerations will determine your class of travel.
1st class/2nd class passes
- Available for Interrail/Eurail Pass holders
- 1st class comes with a quieter atmosphere, privacy, & better amenities
- 2nd class is more affordable and a better place to meet fellow travelers
Easy/Comfort/Executive passes
- Available for Trenitalia Pass users
- Offer access to various classes within the train
- For example, Easy Pass offers access to just the 2nd class coaches, while Executive offers 2nd, 1st & Business Class access
Popular train networks in Italy
Trenitalia is the primary rail operator in Italy. There are a few other private companies providing rail services like Italo. Trains can be broadly classified into high-speed, intercity, and regional trains. Italy is also connected by train to neighboring European countries.
Scenic Routes
- Centovalli Railway: Connecting Domodossola (Italy) & Locarno (Switzerland) through lush valleys and charming villages, Centovalli is a breathtaking journey.
- Cinque Terre: Embark on a scenic coastal journey along the rugged Ligurian coastline, linking the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre.
- Circumetnea Railway: Explore Sicily's volcanic landscapes on the Circumetnea Railway encircling Mount Etna and enjoy dramatic scenery.
High-speed trains
- Frecciarossa, Frecciargento & Frecciabianca trains are Trenitalia's high-speed trains which significantly reduce travel time between major Italian cities
- Seats are assigned
- High-speed services are also offered by other private companies like Italo
Intercity trains
- Intercity trains (IC) are fast trains connecting various cities
- Intercity Notte sleeper trains (ICN) are fast trains connecting cities overnight
- Seats/Sleepers/Couchettes are assigned
Regional trains (R, RV)
- Regional trains run shorter distances
- Connections between Florence-Pisa, Florence-Siena, Florence-Lucca, Venice-Trieste, Rome-Civitavecchia and a lot more
- Seats are not assigned
Play your journey
City-wise exploration
Attractions
Best time to visit
Quick facts
Best things to do
Travel Hacks
Travel Essentials
Transport options
With timeless architectural marvels, world-famous cuisine, and wines, a vibrant art scene and culture, and stylish and passionate people, Italy is a bucket list destination for many, and rightly so. Here's a list of must-visit Italian cities:
- Naples: Naples has vibrant streets, authentic cuisine, and historic sites like Pompeii & the Naples Archaeological Museum.
- Rome: Italy's capital city is a treasure trove of ancient wonders including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the majestic Trevi Fountain.
- Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence captivates with its artistic heritage showcased in the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, & Galleria dell'Accademia.
- Pisa: Famed for its iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa also offers the grandeur of Piazza dei Miracoli, the Baptistery, & the Cathedral.
- Milan: Italy's fashion and design capital, Milan boasts architectural marvels like the Duomo, Da Vinci's Last Supper, & upscale shopping at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
- Venice: The romantic city of canals, Venice enchants with landmarks like St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, & unforgettable gondola rides.
- Colosseum (Rome): The most recognizable ancient amphitheater in the world which is one of the seven world wonders.
- Leaning Tower of Pisa (Pisa): Standing tall for more than 850 years, this iconic tower is known worldwide for its unintended tilt
- Pompeii Archeological Site (Pompeii): Step back in time to explore the remarkably preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city buried by Mount Vesuvius.
- Uffizi Gallery (Florence): Home to priceless Renaissance artworks including Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" and Michelangelo's "Doni Tondo".
- Castel Sant Angelo (Rome): Ancient Roman mausoleum turned fortress boasting stunning views and a rich history.
- Doge's Palace (Venice): Opulent Venetian Gothic landmark symbolizing political power, adorned with exquisite architecture and art.
- Visit from May to September, the peak tourist season for a lot of sun and beach activities
- Keep in mind that the summer months of June, July, and August (though high tourist season) can be quite hot in certain parts of the country
- Visit during the winter months, if you wish to experience fewer crowds, and reduced hotel and airline fares. There can be a small spike in tourists during the holiday season. This time is ideal for tourists seeking Renaissance art galleries and indoor exploration.
- Carnival seekers should visit during February and March
- Wine lovers may find it fun to visit the wine country during the grape harvest season in September and October
- Capital: Rome
- Official language: Italian
- Currency: Euro
- Iconic landmarks: Colosseum (Rome), Leaning Tower of Pisa, Canals of Venice
- Climate: Varies from north to south, but generally has hot summers & mild winters
- Population: 60 million
- Historic landmarks: Visit the historic landmarks from Rome’s period as a sprawling empire. The Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are must-visits.
- Renaissance art: Check out the artistic treasures of Da Vinci, Michelangelo, & Raphael preserved in Italian galleries like the Uffizi Gallery.
- Delightful Italian cuisine: Any Italian trip is incomplete without pizzas, pasta, and other Italian delicacies. Don't forget to indulge in some of the world’s finest wines in Tuscany.
- Water fun: With a large coastline, Italy is home to beautiful beaches perfect for a day out in the Mediterranean sun. Cruises will be a refreshing experience. Islands on the Amalfi coast are ideal for day trips.
- Venetian canals: Glide through narrow canals, passing historic palaces and bridges, capturing the essence of Venice on gondola rides.
- Incredible architecture: Take a moment to admire the wonderful architecture of landmarks like Milan Duomo, Florence Duomo, and so many others that dot the national landscape.
- Tipping culture: Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.
- What to wear: If you are visiting churches, dress modestly. Otherwise, smart casuals are your go-to. Comfortable footwear, lighter fabrics for summer, and layers during spring, fall, & winter are recommended.
- Advance booking: Italy is a tourist hotspot, so book your tickets online in advance to ensure access and better deals.
- Language: Though English is spoken in tourist areas, keep in mind to remember the Italian names/spellings of cities to read signboards, especially at train stations.
- Opt for travel passes: Public transport is affordable and offers good connectivity. Opt for train passes like Trenitalia Passes or Eurail and Interrail Passes for cost benefits & hassle-free travel.
- Skip-the-line tickets: Invest in skip-the-line tickets as queues can be quite long in summer.
- Beware of pickpockets: Stay vigilant in crowded tourist areas to prevent theft.
- Language: Italian
- Time zone: GMT +1
- Currency: Euro
- Country code: +39
- Socket type: Type F plugs
- Emergency numbers: Dial 112 for any emergency, and the operator will connect to the appropriate service. Dial 113 for the State Police, 115 for the Fire Brigade, & 118 for emergency medical attention
- Trains: Italy has an extensive and efficient train network ideal for intercity travel. Get an Italy rail pass for easy access to trains.
- Buses: Local & regional buses in Italy are cheap and offer excellent connectivity. This is ideal for travel within the city or to regions where there are no rail services.
- Metro & trams: Seven Italian cities - Brescia, Catania, Genoa, Milan, Naples, Rome, and Turin - have rail metros (known as Metropolitana) and Venice has a water metro. Trams are available in Rome, Milan, Naples, Turin, and Genoa for convenient intra-city travel.
- Taxis: Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through apps. They are apt for short distances, late-night travel, or if you have more luggage.
- Car rentals: Renting a car offers flexibility and access to remote areas not easily reached by public transportation. However, driving in Italian cities can be challenging due to congestion and limited parking.
- Ferries: Italy's coastal regions and islands are connected by ferries and boats, providing scenic and efficient transportation options.
Frequently asked questions
Which train passes are valid on Italian trains?
Eurail Passes, Interrail Passes, and Trenitalia Passes are valid on Italian trains.
What is the price of an Italy rail pass?
Italian rail pass prices start from €157 but vary with the type of pass, validity, and inclusions.
Does the Italian rail pass cover all trains in Italy?
Eurail/Interrail and Trenitalia Passes cover Trenitalia trains, which is the largest rail operator in Italy. Certain trains by private operators like Italo are not covered by these passes.
Is a rail pass in Italy worth it?
If you plan to take numerous train rides to explore Italy, rail passes are totally worth it. Train passes let you skip ticket queues and save time. They also come with cost benefits and access to even high-speed trains for swift inter-city travel.
What is the best train pass for Italy?
Determining the best train pass for Italy will depend on your itinerary. If you wish for unlimited travel within Italy and other countries, Eurail Global Passes or Interrail Global Passes are ideal. If you want the flexibility of unlimited travel within Italy alone, you can choose a Eurail/Interrail Italy Pass. If you have a rough idea of the number of train journeys you will take, get a Trenitalia Pass.
Which European rail pass allows unlimited travel in Italy?
Eurail or Interrail Pass allows unlimited travel in Italy within its validity period.
Do senior citizens get a discount on Italian rail passes?
Senior citizens, children, and youth can enjoy discounted rates for Italian rail passes.
What is the difference between Easy, Comfort, and Executive Trenitalia Passes?
The difference lies in access to various train classes. Easy pass offers access to 2nd class on various trains; Comfort pass provides access to 1st, 2nd, Premium & Business class on Frecce, 1st & 2nd class on Intercity & EuroCity domestic trains & T2/double or T3 WL access, and couchettes on Intercity Night trains; and Executive pass offers access to all classes on Frecce, 1st clase on Intercity trains, all WL and couchette services on Intercity Night trains and 1st & 2nd class in EuroCity trains.
Can I sit anywhere with an Italy train pass?
On regional trains, you can take any available seat with an Italy train pass. On high-speed trains, seats are assigned and you need to take your designated seat.
Which is the most beautiful train ride in Italy?
Though there are many beautiful train routes in Italy, the Cinque Terre rail journey is often considered one of the most scenic. The tracks travel along the coastline from La Spezia to Levanto and showcase UNESCO-listed charming seaside villages and pristine beaches.
Which trains in Italy require reservations?
Regional Trenitalia trains do not require reservations. High-speed trains like Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca, Intercity, and Intercity Notte trains require seat reservations. Read more about Eurail seat reservations and Interrail seat reservations.