This document provides an overview of train travel basics in Italy. It discusses that trains are an efficient and affordable way to travel within Italy. It then covers the different options for purchasing tickets, including in advance online or at stations, and recommends validating tickets at machines before boarding. The document also outlines the main types of trains - Frecce and Eurostar Italia for fast high-speed trains, Intercity for slower regional trains, and Regional for local routes. Purchasing tickets for the appropriate type of train is important depending on travel needs and destinations.

1. Traveling by Train in
Italy:
The Basics

2. Trains are some of the most efficient and
economical ways of getting around in
Italy.

3. It COULD get a bit
confusing,
though…
…so here are some
of the basic things
you will need to
know when
choosing to travel
by train in Italy.

4. Part 1: Buying a Train Ticket

5. Train tickets in Italy are
generally pretty cheap.
For a few euros more,
you can even purchase
train passes for a day
or week.
In some cities, the
train passes can even
be used for buses and
trams!

6. If you like having your tickets in advance, you can:
Buy tickets online via
the train operator’s
website
Ask your travel agent or
tour operator

7. Having your tickets in advance
is highly recommended,
especially during the busy
summer months.
Reserve your seats, since
everyone else is also
rushing to get on the same
train!

8. If you’re just out for a quick visit, you can:
Buy tickets
directly at the
station
Buy tickets at the
tobacconist, or
“tabacchi”
Use self-serve
ticket machines

9. Note that most self-
serve machines have
instructions in English
as well as a variety of
other languages.
(and also accept credit
and debit cards!)

10. Part 2: Types of Trains
(aka, what type of ticket to buy)

11. Frecce and
Eurostar Italia
• Higher price
• Super-fast
• Super comfortable
• First-class coaches
only
• Requires
reservations
• Has coach and seat
assignments.

12. Intercity Trains
• Moderate to low price
• Trip takes a while
longer
• Makes stops along the
way.
• Offers first-class and
second-class coaches.
• First class = guaranteed
seat
• Second class = you MAY
end up standing until a
seat frees up.

13. Regional Trains
• Low price
• Locals use to it to get
to and from work and
school
• Usually offers only
second-class coaches
• To get a seat, avoid
rush hours!

14. Part 3: Important Reminder:
Validate that ticket!

15. If your ticket
doesn’t have a
specific train
number, date
and time printed
on it, you will
need to get it
validated before
boarding.

16. Look for a little
green, white, or
yellow
electronic box,
and insert your
ticket into it to
get your ticket
timestamped or
validated.

17. Don’t let the conductor
catch you without a
validated ticket during
inspection!
That’s a
fifty-euro
fine on the
spot!

18. Now, just sit back and enjoy the ride
and the view!

19. Presented by:

20. For more information about Italy and
travel to Italy, visit our website
www.touritalynow.com
or call our travel experts at
800.955.4418