What You Need to Know to Book the Best Train From Rome to Florence: A Guide for First-Time Visitors
I just returned from a three-week European holiday, including several days in Italy. One of my biggest fears traveling throughout Italy was how to use the train system. I’m here to help you navigate the Italian train system, including how to purchase your tickets, board the train, and other tips that will help ease your fears.
You will see how using Italy’s extensive network of high-speed trains allows you to explore its stunning cities effortlessly.
This guide focuses on booking the best train from Rome to Florence, but you can use the same guidelines to book train tickets for other major Italian cities, such as Milan, Venice, and Naples.
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Thanks to the high-speed trains, traveling throughout Italy is quite simple. After spending several days exploring Rome after our Mediterranean cruise, it was time to head to Florence.
Use my experience to help you make a similar trip via the high-speed trains.
How to Book Your Italian Train Ticket
Booking your train tickets online is the easiest and most convenient way to secure your seats for the best high-speed train from Rome to Florence.
Book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, for the best prices. Prices will rise closer to your departure date.
There are regional and high-speed trains in Italy, with the two main high-speed train operators being Trenitalia and Italo. For the best train from Rome to Florence, you definitely want to book a high-speed train.
So, how do you know which line to book your train tickets for? The answer is neither!
One tip I learned is to use a website and/or app called Trainline. Trainline searches all the available trains from Trenitalia and Italo for your dates and returns the best options.
Step 1: Book Your High-Speed Train Tickets
Here are the step-by-step instructions for booking your high-speed train in Italy.
1. Visit www.thetrainline.com or download the Trainline app on your phone.
2. Select your travel dates.
3. Input your travel cities. The train station names are in Italian, so if you are searching for a high-speed train from Rome to Florence, you should look for “Roma-Termini” as the departure city and “Firenze-Santa Maria Novella” as the destination city.
4. When the search results are returned, Trainline suggests the best train based on time and price. Choose the train timing that suits your schedule.
Both Trenitalia and Italo offer multiple high-speed train options throughout the day. Make sure the train you select is 1 hr 36m with 0 Changes, indicating a high-speed train.
5. Select the desired ticket type. There are typically two main ticket types:
- Standard(Economy): The most affordable option, with limited flexibility for changes or refunds.
- Premium(1st Class): A more expensive ticket offering additional perks like more legroom, priority boarding, and flexible changes or refunds. Depending on which train you choose, Italo or Trenitalia, the first class is also called business class and offers added amenities like lounge access and complimentary snacks/beverages.
6. Review your booking details and complete the payment process using a credit/debit card or other accepted payment methods.
7. You will receive a confirmation email with your e-ticket(s), which you can either print or show on your mobile device when boarding the train.
By buying your train ticket on Trainline, you do not need to worry about validating your ticket at the train station.
However, if you choose to buy a paper ticket at the train station, you must validate it, or you can face a 50 Euro fine. To validate, look for a ticket kiosk near the gate entrance where you will scan your ticket.
Step 2: Getting to the Train Station in Rome
There are two primary stations for high-speed trains in Rome: Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina. If you are a tourist, you most likely want to use Roma Termini, Rome’s largest and most central station.
Don’t make the mistake of booking Roma Tiburtina, which is located in the eastern part of Rome.
Traveling by high-speed train in Italy is not the same as traveling through an airport. You do not need to arrive at the station two hours early.
Thirty minutes before departure should be plenty of time to navigate through the station.
However, if you arrive before your scheduled departure time, shops and restaurants are in the terminal. You’ll find well-known restaurants, such as Eataly, like the one in Las Vegas, and stores, such as MAC Cosmetics and Crocs.
The following two steps happen very quickly since the turnaround time for trains arriving and leaving is within minutes.
Be alert because it is not uncommon for the train platforms to change at the last minute.
Step 3: Find Your Platform
Boarding a high-speed train in Italy is straightforward, but it can seem overwhelming if it’s your first time, mainly because it is not well organized.
The first thing you need to do is find the departure boards located throughout the station. They are similar to those in American airports, which display Arrivals and Departures.
It is important to look for your train number, not the name of your destination.
When you see your train number on the departure boards, go to the platform listed. Again, this is very similar to finding your gate at the airport.
There are thirty platforms in Rome, clearly labeled with signs above.
To get to the platforms, you will walk through electronic gates where you will scan your electronic or printed ticket.
Once you locate your platform, look for your car number on the electronic screens hanging up above. Then, stand or sit in that area until your train arrives.
When your train arrives, check the number of the train car. The car numbers are clearly marked on the sides of the train.
Step 4: Find Your Seat
Typically, you present your ticket to the attendant, who scans or collects it. They may also ask for your identification.
No one ever asked for our ticket when we boarded, but they did ask for it once we were seated. So, don’t freak out if no one asks for your ticket at the car’s entrance.
After boarding, locate the seat number printed on your ticket.
The seats are arranged in rows, each with a number displayed above it.
In Business Class, our oversized leather seats faced each other, with a table between them.
Luggage on a High-Speed Train
There are no luggage fees on a high-speed train.
You can store your oversized luggage in the designated luggage racks near the entrances or at the end of the car.
Keep your smaller bags and valuables in the bins above your seat.
The Train Trip From Rome to Florence
Traveling by high-speed train in Italy is a delightful experience.
Passengers have spacious seating, power outlets, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Snacks and drinks are provided in Business Class, or items can be purchased in the snack car.
The trip from Rome to Florence is a scenic delight, taking you through picturesque countryside.
As you leave Rome’s bustling streets behind, the train glides through rolling hills, vineyards, and charming medieval towns.
Traveling upwards of 250 mph, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Umbrian countryside.
The train ride takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes on the high-speed Frecciarossa or Italo trains.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as you travel effortlessly between these two iconic Italian cities.
Benefits of Taking a High-Speed Train from Rome to Florence
A high-speed train from Rome to Florence offers several advantages over driving or taking a bus.
One of the primary benefits is the significant time savings. The trip by train takes only around 1.5 hours, while driving can take over three hours, depending on traffic conditions.
With a high-speed train, you can avoid the stress of navigating through traffic and finding parking in crowded cities.
High-speed trains in Italy are designed for comfort and convenience.
You’ll enjoy spacious seating, air conditioning, and the ability to move freely during the ride. Many trains also offer food and beverage services, making the travel experience more enjoyable.
Another advantage of the high-speed train is the scenic views along the route. Traveling through the Italian countryside, you’ll be treated to breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque villages.
Taking the high-speed train is also more eco-friendly than driving, as it reduces one’s carbon footprint and contributes to sustainable travel practices.
Additionally, you’ll avoid the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads, securing a foreign license, and finding parking in crowded cities.
More Tips for a Smooth Train Ride
You’ll need to carry your luggage on and off the train.
There is no checked baggage or anybody to help you with your luggage.
Pack light for a hassle-free experience when traveling by high-speed train from Rome to Florence.
Arriving at the train station well in advance is highly recommended, but you don’t need to be there hours ahead of your departure time.
Aim to be there at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This will give you ample time to navigate the station, locate your platform, and board the train without rushing.
Finally, remain vigilant and monitor your belongings at all times, especially when boarding, disembarking, or moving through crowded train station areas.
Following these simple tips will prepare you for a smooth trip from Rome to Florence.
