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Italy's awe-inspiring train system is nothing short of extraordinary, presenting you with an unparalleled way to explore. The high-speed network effortlessly spans Italy's most prominent towns and cities, transporting visitors from the vibrant north to the sun-kissed landscapes of Calabria and Sicily in the south. Scroll down this page and discover the greatest Italian rail journeys of all.
TrenItalia, the nation's rail operator, operates three remarkable high-speed train versions: the Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca. These sleek and sophisticated trains whisk passengers across Italy with efficiency and style.
For an alternative choice, Italo provides its own high-speed services, ensuring passengers have ample options for intercity travel.
Embark on an unforgettable Italian rail journey and allow the rhythm of the tracks to carry you to hidden gems, picturesque landscapes, and cultural wonders. So hop on board and let the enchantment of Italy unfold before your very eyes...
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🚆 You can find and buy cheap train tickets for your trip in advance here
For more tips on how to get the best deals on tickets scroll down to our questions section.
Trains such as the one from Turin to Nice and the route along the Italian Riviera offer stunning scenery; further down the page, you'll find details of these and the other train journeys that are rated as the most spectacular train journeys in Italy.
With regards to exploring Italy in general; trains are great, but some of the countryside regions and little villages aren't well covered by the rail network. There are exceptions though, the Cinque Terre villages have a superb train service and so too does the coast of Calabria
Many decades ago, long before I met and married my Italian wife, Maria, I visited Italy by train on a Eurail Pass. It was a great first introduction to Italy, and I saw all the main cities - the typical tourist cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence. I loved it.
However, to really discover the Italian countryside, a car is best. Base yourself in one town or village, find a characteristic place to stay, and explore.
Having said that, there are definitely some train journeys one really should take - some of the best ones I've listed below the photo. If you are a supporter, you are always welcome to contact me for personalized advice.
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🚆 You can find and buy cheap train tickets for your trip in advance here
Question 1: Which are the most beautiful train rides in Italy?
Answer:
Question 2: How fast are Italian trains?
Answer: The maximum recorded speed in testing is 393.8 km/h (244.7 mph), although operating speeds are limited to 300 km/h (186 mph). The fastest trains are the Frecciarossa 1000 trains, followed by the Italo trains that can reach a maximum speed of 360 km/h (160mph).
Question 3: When is the best time to buy train tickets?
Answer: I find that booking for the fast trains between one and three months before traveling generally works out the cheapest. If you are booking a regional train, the prices are generally the same regardless of when you book. A good idea is to download the Trenitalia app so that you can buy tickets online, and then the ticket inspector simply scans the QR code on your phone.
Question 4: How to avoid fines when traveling by train in Italy
Answer: If you don't buy tickets online, you will need to physically validate your train ticket using the little machines on the platform before boarding, plus fill in the date and sign if it is a multi-day ticket. Not validating your train ticket, together with the fines from getting caught in ZTL zones, is the most common way tourists get fined in Italy. You can find out about ZTL zones and other mistakes tourists to Italy MUST NOT make here.
Question 5: Are trains in Italy expensive?
Answer: No, the tickets are very affordable and, considering the quality of Italian trains, are often a real bargain.
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🚆 You can find and buy cheap train tickets for your trip in advance here
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