As a study abroad student coming to Italy, you will be looking forward to exploring the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes. However, you will also find yourself navigating Italian transportation, which can be quite different from what Americans are used to! Ever heard of the difference between high-speed and regional trains? Why are strikes so common in Italy, and how can you work around them when you need to make it in time for your classes? This guide will help you understand how to move around efficiently, making your semester abroad much smoother.

Trains: The Backbone of Long-Distance Travel

Trains are probably the most efficient way to travel around Italy. Italy has two main train companies: Trenitalia and Italo. Trenitalia, the national rail company, operates both high-speed and regional trains, while Italo is a private company that connects bigger cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, and Naples, with high-speed trains only. These offer assigned seating and Wi-Fi connection, while regional trains are more affordable but slower, and you can sit anywhere. Also, if you are using a regional train, bear in mind that it might make different stops in the same city, as there are multiple train stations in bigger cities (for example, in Florence you’ll find Santa Maria Novella, Campo di Marte, Rifredi, etc.). Trenitalia also offers international connections to Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, including night trains.

We always recommend booking tickets in advance, as you’ll get better offers the earlier you book before the departure date. If using a paper ticket, remember to validate it at a machine before boarding, while digital tickets validate automatically at departure. Additionally, while in more touristic cities like Florence and Rome, you’ll find more people who can speak English, elsewhere you might encounter more language barriers – remember that patience and slow communication are key in these cases!

Travel locally with buses

Buses in Italy are essential for reaching smaller towns that aren’t served by trains. Local buses provide connectivity within and between regions, allowing you to explore nearly every destination even without independent transportation – unlike in the US. In Tuscany, for example, you can reach every corner of the region with Autolinee Toscane and Busitalia.

Additionally, companies like FlixBus and Itabus offer long-distance travel at affordable rates, and they even reach neighboring countries like Switzerland, Austria or France.

City Buses, Metro, Trams, and Other City Transport Options

City buses in Italy are a very common way to move around in big and small cities/towns. Bus tickets must be purchased before boarding, from kiosks, tobacco shops (tabaccherie), or ticket machines at bus/tram stops. However, in Florence and other cities such as Bologna, Rome, Milan, Naples, and Venice, you have the option to use contactless payment onboard, but be sure to check beforehand! The tickets are valid for 90-100 minutes, depending on the city, and you must validate your paper ticket when boarding, as inspectors frequently check and issue heavy fines to those without properly validated tickets.

While not as extensive as systems in cities like New York or London, Italy’s metro networks are efficient for getting around major cities. Rome, Milan, Naples, and Turin have metro systems with multiple lines, which make it easy to navigate these cities quickly. Metro tickets are generally affordable and often include access to buses and trams within the city for a set period.

Trams are another great way to explore Italian cities. Florence, Milan, and Rome have well-connected tram networks that offer a slower, but scenic and efficient mode of transport. Additionally, some cities, such as Naples and Genoa, have unique funiculars that help travelers navigate steep hills.

Alternative Transportation

Essential Travel Tips and Cultural Insights

Traveling in Italy isn’t just about knowing the transport systems—it’s also about understanding local customs. Strikes (scioperi) are frequent, particularly with trains and public transport (bus/tram/metro), so it’s important to be prepared. Strikes in Italy are opt-in, which means that individual workers from the sector that is striking will decide whether to show up at work that day or not. So, unfortunately, there is no way of knowing in advance whether a specific train or bus ride will actually run and/or will be delayed.

What you can do:

• Check official websites for updates on potential disruptions.
• Plan extra time in case of disruptions.
• Consider using taxis instead (for example, if you need to reach the airport to catch a flight).
• Check the lists of guaranteed trains. Train companies always provide a list of trains that will run even in case of a strike.

But most importantly, don’t panic! A solution is usually around the corner.

Italian travel etiquette also differs from what Americans may be used to. For example, forming an orderly queue unfortunately is not always common, so be prepared to secure your spot when boarding trains or buses. Additionally, pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas, so always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in train stations and on public transport.

Italy’s transportation system can seem overwhelming and confusing at first, but once you understand the basics, getting around will become much easier. Trains offer a fast and comfortable way to visit major cities, while buses are the easiest and cheapest option to move around towns. Metro systems and trams help navigate larger urban areas, and alternative transport options like scooters and bikes add flexibility. By planning ahead and being mindful of local customs, you can make your Italian journey smooth and enjoyable. Buon viaggio!