Traveling by Train in Italy:

The Basics

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

Italy.

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.

Part 1: Buying a Train Ticket

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!

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

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!

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

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!)

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

Frecce and Eurostar Italia

• Higher price • Super-fast • Super comfortable • First-class coaches

only • Requires

reservations • Has coach and seat

assignments.

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.

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!

Part 3: Important Reminder: Validate that ticket!

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.

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

Don’t let the conductor catch you without a

validated ticket during inspection!

That’s a fifty-euro

fine on the spot!

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

Presented by:

For more information about Italy and travel to Italy, visit our website

www.touritalynow.com

or call our travel experts at

800.955.4418