With these helpful tips, you’ll feel empowered to tackle Italy’s public transportation system and learn how to travel in Italy like a local.
Trains
- TrenItalia and Italo are the two major train companies, offering both regional and high-speed services.
- Prices vary based on distance, class, and speed. Expect to pay $20-$100+ for longer trips.
- Trenitalia: Italy’s main train operator, offers various options:
- Frecciarossa & Frecciabianca: High-speed trains connecting major cities. Fastest option, but most expensive (starting at ~$80 USD for major routes).
- Intercity & Regional: Slower trains connecting smaller towns and cities. More affordable (starting at ~$20 USD).
- Italo: A private train operator offering high-speed connections at competitive prices (similar to Frecciarossa/bianca).
- Student Discounts: Both Trenitalia and Italo offer student discounts. Look for “Carta giovani” (young people’s card) or specific student offers on their websites. Discounts can range from 15% to 30% off tickets.
Buses
- Flixbus is a popular budget bus company that connects cities across Italy.
- Fares start around $10-$20 for short trips and $50+ for longer journeys.
- Buses are often cheaper than trains but take longer due to traffic.
- Private Companies: Several regional and national bus companies operate in Italy. Check their websites or stations for fares.
Planes
- Flights are most practical for reaching Sicily, Sardinia, and other islands from the mainland.
- Ryanair and Alitalia offer domestic flights, with fares starting around $50-$100+ depending on the route and whether you book in advance.
Public Transportation in Cities
- Most major cities have metro, tram, and bus networks. Single tickets cost $1.50-$3, and daily/weekly passes are available. These can be purchased at newsstands or stations.g
- In Rome, a monthly unlimited pass is $270 for adults, and $220 for students under 26.
- In Milan, a monthly pass is $35 for adults, and $25 for students.
Learn more at Romesite on how to get around Italy.
Taxis
- Taxis are convenient but expensive, with base fares around $3-$5 plus $1-2 per km.
- Uber is available in some cities but more limited than in the US.
Rental Cars (I’ll do a post on renting a car later.)
- Renting a car provides flexibility but can be challenging in historic city centers with limited parking and traffic.
- Expect to pay $30-$50+ per day for a basic car, plus tolls on highways (autostrada), which can add $10-$20+ to longer trips.
Ferries
- Ferries connect the mainland to islands like Sicily and Sardinia, as well as between coastal cities.
- Prices vary widely based on route and class, but expect to pay $20-$100+ for a one-way ticket.
- With some advance planning and flexibility, it’s possible to get around Italy affordably using a combination of trains, buses, and public transportation in cities. Student discounts can provide significant savings on rail and bus fares. So do take advantage!
- Italy boasts a well-developed transportation network, making it easy to explore its diverse regions.
Additional Tips:
- Consider purchasing multi-day travel passes if you plan on frequent travel within a specific region.
- Look into regional train passes like “Interrail Italy Pass” for unlimited train travel within a set period.
Remember, these are estimated costs. Always check with specific train companies, bus operators, or local transport authorities for the latest fares and potential student discounts.
Day trips within Tuscany are a MUST! Check out Lucca in this fun guide curated by Lucca native, Yareli Parra, and founder of the blog, “Wandering & Tasting”. Check out her blog at wanderingandtasting.com and her amazing photography on Instagram @yareliparramora.
