Imagine gliding through sun-kissed vineyards, past ancient ruins, and along sparkling coastlines—all from the comfort of a train carriage. This is the magic of train travel in Italy, where every journey is a scenic adventure. Whether you’re seeking the romance of Venice, the history of Rome, or the vibrant energy of Naples, Italy’s rail network offers an unparalleled way to explore the country’s diverse beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Not only can you explore the country at a more leisurely pace, but you can also avoid the stress of airport security and do your bit for the environment by opting for train travel. From the stunning landscapes of Tuscany to the charming coastal towns of Cinque Terre, get ready to embark on an adventure that combines the charm of classic travel with the convenience of modern comfort.
Train travel in Italy boasts some of the most scenic rail routes in the world. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, train travel in Italy reveals dramatic landscapes you’d miss while travelling by car. Enjoy panoramic views of vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages, all while relaxing in a comfortable seat. The route between Venice and Florence, for example, offers mesmerizing views of the Tuscan countryside, while the train ride through the Italian Alps offers a spectacle of snow-capped peaks.
Italy’s extensive train network connects major cities, towns, and even remote regions, making train travel in Italy convenient and hassle-free. Trenitalia, the national railway company, offers a range of services from high-speed trains to regional lines, all equipped with modern amenities. High-speed trains like the Frecciarossa and Italo trains make travel between major cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan fast and comfortable. For a more relaxed experience, consider taking scenic trains like the Bernina Express or the Train of the Seven Hills.
For environmentally-conscious travellers, train travel in Italy provides a greener way to explore the country compared to flying or driving. Trains in Italy are well-equipped with energy-efficient systems, and they help reduce traffic congestion and pollution. By opting for train travel in Italy, you’ll be supporting sustainable tourism while reducing your carbon footprint. And many of our spectacular Italian villas are within reach of a railway station, so you can travel and stay in style.
One of the best parts of train travel in Italy is the ability to visit smaller, lesser-known towns that you might otherwise overlook. The Italian rail network reaches many charming, tucked-away destinations where you can discover hidden gems. For instance, the charming hilltop village of Matera, known for its ancient stone dwellings, is easily accessible by train. You can also take a train to places like Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast, or the charming lakeside towns of Como and Garda, all of which play host to some of our favourite luxury villas in Italy.
A must for art lovers, this iconic route connects Italy’s two most famous cities, offering travellers the chance to explore the ancient ruins of Rome and the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence. The train travel in Italy between these cities takes about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the changing landscapes. The Tuscan countryside, with its rolling hills and charming villages, offers a relaxing journey. Once in Florence, explore the Uffizi Gallery, the Florence Cathedral, and the Ponte Vecchio.
A train journey in Italy from Milan to Venice offers an intriguing mix of Italy’s bustling fashion capital and the romance of the lagoon city. Milan’s modern urban landscape gives way to the serene waters of Venice. A high-speed train will get you to Venice in about 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to explore the canals, Piazza San Marco, and the iconic Rialto Bridge. For a unique experience, take a Vaporetto (water bus) through the canals to see Venice from a different angle.
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, and train travel in Italy from Naples to Sorrento is a wonderful way to see this stunning stretch of coastline. The Circumvesuviana train takes you from Naples, through the scenic Bay of Naples, to Sorrento, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. From Sorrento, you can easily explore coastal gems like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi itself.
Cinque Terre, the famous collection of five picturesque seaside villages, is a dream destination for many travellers. The train travel in Italy along the Ligurian coast offers breathtaking views of colourful houses perched on cliffs, surrounded by the blue waters of the Mediterranean. The train stops at each of the villages, including Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. From here, you can enjoy a variety of hiking trails, seafood feasts, and serene beach days.
Inspired by our roundup of train travel in Italy? Check out our full collection of villas in Italy on Oliver’s Travels and read more about our love of train travel. Contact our friendly Concierge team for more travel advice and special extras that will elevate villa holidays in Italy.
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