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Italy by train
- Climb aboard for 3 separate journeys on any Trenitalia train from Frecce and FrecciaLink to Intercity, Intercity Night, and Italy-Switzerland domestic lines.
- Explore the quickest and most inexpensive way to travel in Italy with a 7-day validity. Carriages are equipped with amenities like charging ports per seat.
- Travel around all of Italy and enjoy expansive views – visit the ancient city of Rome, the piazzas of Florence, and the canals of Venice.
- Choose between 3 flexible ticket types and have a comfortable ride whether in standard, 2nd, premium, or 1st class with couchette services.
Inclusions
- 3 trips on Trenitalia trains
- 7-day validity
- Access to Frecce & Freccia Link
- Access to Intercity & Intercity Night
- Access to EuroCity Italy-Switzerland trains (on domestic routes within Italy)
Exclusions
- Excelsior carriages on Intercity Night trains
- Tip: To book tickets with longer validity and more journeys, click here for the 4-journey pass, here for the 7-journey pass, and here for the 10-journey pass.
- Seat reservations for the trips included in the pass are mandatory and free of charge.
- Each Adult Pass holder can include a maximum of two children between the ages of 4 to 12 in their booking, free of charge.
- An additional Youth Pass must be purchased if an Adult Pass holder wishes to travel with more than 2 children.
- A child aged 4 and below can travel for free, however, they cannot occupy their own seat and must be accompanied by an Adult Pass holder who also holds an Infant/Child Pass.
- Booking modifications (date/time, connection, train) are permitted subject to the terms and limitations of the Base fare and the validity period of the Pass.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Enjoy 4 journeys with Trenitalia rail services from Frecce and FrecciaLink to Intercity. Your pass is valid for a flexible 7 days!
- Also travel via the Intercity Night, and Italy-Switzerland domestic lines as you visit diverse regions and cities of Naples, Rome, Florence, and more.
- Travel around Italy in the fastest way possible, without breaking the bank, and enjoy convenient charging ports between every seat.
- Choose between 3 ticket options and enjoy spacious rides and comfortable service whether in 1st or 2nd class.
Inclusions
- 4 trips on Trenitalia trains
- 7-day validity
- Access to Frecce & Freccia Link
- Access to Intercity & Intercity Night
- Access to EuroCity Italy-Switzerland trains (on domestic routes within Italy)
Exclusions
- Excelsior carriages on Intercity Night trains
- Tip: To book tickets with longer validity and more journeys, click here for the 7-journey pass, and here for the 10-journey pass. Alternatively, here is a 3-journey pass.
- Seat reservations for the trips included in the pass are mandatory and free of charge.
- Each Adult Pass holder can include a maximum of two children between the ages of 4 to 12 in their booking, free of charge.
- An additional Youth Pass must be purchased if an Adult Pass holder wishes to travel with more than 2 children.
- A child aged 4 and under can travel for free, however, they cannot occupy their own seat and must be accompanied by an Adult Pass holder who also holds an Infant/Child Pass.
- Kindly note that your booking can change as per date/connection/time/train, so it's advised to make a reservation according to the terms and conditions applicable to the base fare and within the validity frame of the pass.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Get 7 rides aboard all Trenitalia train lines through Italy like the high-speed Frecce and FrecciaLink to Intercity and Intercity Night.
- Valid for 10 days, you'll also get access to Italy-Switzerland domestic lines within the country.
- Enjoy separate rides in the most cost-effective way and look out for amazing views, and make use of charging ports between every seat.
- Explore diverse regions from the ancient city of Rome to the canals of Venice and the piazzas of Florence.
- Choose between ticket types that give you flexibility between standard, 1st and 2nd class, and premium services.
Inclusions
- 7 trips on Trenitalia trains
- 10-day validity
- Access to Frecce & Freccia Link
- Access to Intercity & Intercity Night
- Access to EuroCity Italy-Switzerland trains (on domestic routes within Italy)
Exclusions
- Excelsior carriages on Intercity Night trains
- Tip: To make the most of your travel pass, make a list of the places you want to visit and the trains you need to take, Check the timetable, and availability of seats in advance.
- Each Adult Pass holder can include a maximum of two children between the ages of 4 to 12 in their booking, free of charge.
- An additional Youth Pass must be purchased if an Adult Pass holder wishes to travel with more than 2 children.
- A child aged 4 and under can travel for free, however, they cannot occupy their own seat and must be accompanied by an Adult Pass holder who also holds an Infant/Child Pass.
- Kindly note that your booking can change as per date/connection/time/train, so it's advised to make a reservation according to the terms and conditions applicable to the base fare and within the validity frame of the pass.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Embark on 10 journeys on any Trenitalia train from the speedy Frecce and FrecciaLink to Intercity lines.
- Other lines included are Intercity Night and Italy-Switzerland domestic lines with a validity of 30 days.
- These trains are the most inexpensive way to travel around Italy, with journeys offering amazing views and features like charging ports per seat.
- Visit the canals of Venice, the piazzas of Florence, and more at your own pace.
- Choose between Easy, Comfort, and Executive ticket types and enjoy spacious rides whether in 1st or 2nd class.
Inclusions
- 10 trips on Trenitalia trains
- 30-day validity
- Access to Frecce & Freccia Link
- Access to Intercity & Intercity Night
- Access to EuroCity Italy-Switzerland trains (on domestic routes within Italy)
Exclusions
- Excelsior carriages on Intercity Night trains
- Tip: Grab an ‘Executive’ pass if you prefer to experience Italy leisurely. The pass includes access to seats in any class on board.
- Each Adult Pass holder can include a maximum of two children between the ages of 4 to 12 in their booking, free of charge.
- An additional Youth Pass must be purchased if an Adult Pass holder wishes to travel with more than 2 children.
- A child aged 4 and under can travel for free, however, they cannot occupy their own seat and must be accompanied by an Adult Pass holder who also holds an Infant/Child Pass.
- Kindly note that your booking can change as per date/connection/time/train, so it's advised to make a reservation according to the terms and conditions applicable to the base fare and within the validity frame of the pass.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Get access to unlimited travel on Europe’s national rail networks, valid for 11 months post-purchase across 40,000 destinations in 33 countries.
- Choose between a 4, 5, or 7-day pass that stays valid for a month after activation, or get a 10 or 15-day pass that's valid for 2 months after activation.
- Simplify your connections and travel with 40 rail and ferry companies in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and more.
- Join fellow travelers and families like yours with these affordable 2nd class tickets.
- Just download the app, scan your pass, and skip the long winding queues with your mobile pass.
Inclusions
- 4/5/7/10/15-day pass in 33 European countries
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Night trains can save you travel time and accommodation costs. Consider taking night trains for longer journeys to maximize your days for exploration.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It cannot be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After Activation: The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Get access to unlimited travel on Europe’s national rail networks, valid for 11 months post-purchase across 40,000 destinations in 33 countries.
- Choose between a 4, 5, or 7-day pass that stays valid for a month after activation, or get a 10 or 15-day pass that's valid for 2 months after activation.
- Simplify your connections and travel with 40 rail and ferry companies in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and more.
- Get a peaceful 'do not disturb environment' with these 1st class tickets.
- Just download the app, scan your pass, and skip the long winding queues with your mobile pass.
Inclusions
- 4/5/7/10/15-day pass in 33 European countries
- 1st class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Night trains can save you travel time and accommodation costs. Consider taking night trains for longer journeys to maximize your days for exploration.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It cannot be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After Activation: The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes are valid for 60 days after activation.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Unlock connectivity across 33 European countries with just one pass for a whopping 11 months.
- Pick your Euro travel dates with 15 or 22-day validity, or crank it up a notch with 1, 2, or 3-month options.
- Cruise through iconic destinations like Italy, Belgium, Croatia, and more.
- Join the party in 2nd-class seats and mingle with fellow wanderers and families. Oh, did we mention free WiFi and luggage space on board?
- Whip out your e-pass, hold up the square barcode, and wave it at the 'scan ticket' signs and there you go, pass activated!
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- Valid for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 consecutive months after activation
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
- Tip: As the pass offers access to 33 countries, make sure to add a few hidden gem or off-beat spots to your itinerary.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It can't be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Bring along the traveller’s guide provided along with your pass.
- Note that there are no extra pass benefits in the following countries:
Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Montenegro and Poland. - The passes are not valid on the Postbus lines in Switzerland.
- Children between 4 and 11 years of age can travel for free with a Child Pass and below 4 years of age don’t require any pass.
- 2 children can travel with one adult. For example, if 2 adults are traveling, they can take 4 children with them. If the number increases, it is recommended to purchase a separate Youth Pass.
- Children traveling accompanied by guests with Senior or Youth Pass are not eligible for free travel, a Child Pass needs to be purchased.
- Reservation is compulsory for high-speed, scenic and night trains.
- Pass holders can travel for free on IC Buses, provided your pass is valid in the country you are traveling to. You need to make a reservation and make a small fee to access the routes. Check out the list here.
- Note that before boarding a train, bus or boat, it is mandatory for guests to record their trip in the Travel Report on the Eurail app. Failing to do so, they risk a fine and payment of a full ticket.
- Before activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After activation: The passes are valid for 15 or 22 consecutive days, or 1, 2, or 3 consecutive months after activation. You can use your pass to travel every day within that period.
- There will be no refund on a partially used, activated pass. The pass will be 100% refundable on an unused pass within 1 year of purchase.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Grab this continuous global pass, giving you access to 33 European countries, valid for 11 months after purchase.
- Select 15 or 22 days or 1, 2, or 3 months of continuous travel. There’s no need to pick a start date, just activate your pass on your first travel day.
- Make connectively effortless as you travel to countries like Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, and more.
- Opt for a quiet, ‘do not disturb’ experience with 1st class tickets.
- Simply download the app, scan your pass, and skip the long entry queues with your mobile pass.
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- Valid for 15/22 days or 1/2/3 consecutive months after activation
- 1st class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Plan a rough itinerary to maximize your travel days and see your desired places while benefiting from Interrail's flexibility.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This pass is specific to EU residents. It can't be sold to non-European travelers or used in the country of residence of the traveler (only 2 journeys are allowed in the home country to leave and return).
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Interrail Pass.
- After activation: The passes are valid for 15 or 22 consecutive days, or 1, 2, or 3 consecutive months after activation. You can use your pass to travel every day within that period.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Explore 33 European countries with unlimited travel on national rail networks using this flexible pass, valid for 11 months after purchase.
- The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days post activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes for 60 days, making itinerary planning hassle-free.
- Plan same-day connections between Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, and more, making connectivity effortless.
- Eurail 2nd class serves up comfy train journeys with plush or leather seats for a chill, and relaxing European adventure.
- Go paperless and simply download the app, scan your pass, and get direct entry to the platform without worrying about standing in line.
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- 4/5/7/10/15-day validity
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Remember to travel light and efficiently as you’ll be carrying luggage on and off trains.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, the Russian Federation, and Turkey.
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- During Activation: Here is a detailed guide to help you activate your Eurail Pass.
- After Activation: The 4, 5, and 7-day passes are valid for 30 days after activation, and the 10 and 15-day passes for 60 days after activation.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
- Explore 33 European countries with continuous travel on national rail networks using this pass, valid for 11 months after purchase.
- Choose between 15 days, 22 days, 1 month, 2 months, or 3 months of continuous travel days.
- Plan same-day connections between Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, and more, making connectivity effortless.
- Get free Wi-Fi, ample luggage space and enjoy air conditioning in 2nd class.
- Go paperless and simply download the app, scan your pass, and get direct entry to the platform without worrying about standing in line.
Inclusions
- Access to 33 European countries
- 15/22-day or 1/2/3-month validity
- 2nd class seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Ample luggage space
- AC onboard
Exclusions
- Reserved seats
- Tip: Remember to travel light and efficiently as you’ll be carrying luggage on and off trains.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This pass cannot be sold or used by residents of Europe, the Russian Federation, and Turkey.
- Seat/bed reservations for mandatory bookable trains need to be purchased at an additional cost to the rail pass.
- Before Activation: The pass must be activated through the Eurail Rail Planner App within 11 months after the date of purchase and before the first travel.
- Please click here for a detailed guide to activating your Eurail Pass.
- After Activation: The passes are valid for 15, 22 days, 1, 2 or 3 months continuously after activation. You can use your pass to travel every day within that period.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
- These tickets are valid for 11 months from the date of purchase.
Unlock the wonders of Italy with a rail pass. Whether marveling at the Adriatic coastline or exploring Milan or Rome, Italy is best explored by trains offering excellent connectivity. Train passes make this even more convenient and affordable, sparing you from ticket queues and stress. Tailor your pass from a variety of options, and ensure a seamless journey with the Italy rail pass.
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.