Traveling Italy by Train: 5 Tips To Enjoy the Ride

With its stunning cities and authentic villages, traveling Italy by train is a great way to explore this beloved European destination.

Thanks to a well-developed railway system across the country, it’s possible to visit the most beautiful places in Italy and enjoy the incredible scenery along the way.

So, what exactly is there to know before boarding? Here are our top tips on exploring Italy by train. 

Italian Train Travel

1. Choose High-Speed Trains

Like other parts of Western Europe, Italy has high-speed trains that quickly get you from point A to point B. But there are also many older, rugged-looking trains still in operation that are much slower. 

If you wish to ride the older trains, you can choose them, but there’s no reason to lengthen your trip no matter how much you like spending time on the rails. It’ll take a lot more time and, on occasion, cost more.  

High-speed trains are safe and reliable, with comfortable seating arrangements. For example, the train from Venice to Florence drives at such speed that your journey will only take two hours.

2. Buy Tickets in Advance

While spontaneous trips can be exciting, I suggest you buy tickets beforehand to ensure you have a seat at your desired departure time. This is especially important when your travels take you further than Italy’s borders.

Italy has well-developed international railway lines, and there are numerous places from which you can reach Italian cities. 

For example, such routes as the Vienna to Venice train are extremely popular, and travelers tend to include it in their Eurotrip itineraries.

So, buying a ticket in advance would be in your best interest. You’re also more likely to save some money buying beforehand, rather than paying at the station or on the train. 

Related: Highlights from a Return Trip to Florence

3. Arrive Early

I suggest arriving at the train station approximately 20 minutes before the departure. Italian trains don’t tend to leave earlier than scheduled, whatever your preconceived notions, nor are they often late.

Long queues are not typically a problem, and aside from the peak summer travel season and Christmas holidays, the stations don’t get too crowded.

However, it takes a while to check your ticket, especially if you’re traveling in Italy by train for the first time and have bought a ticket in…