Few things can be as pleasant as travelling across Italy whose public transport system is as convenient as it is diverse. If you are planning to explore Italy by an eco-friendly and convenient means of public transport, this article provides basic information about its railway network as well as Italy’s metro, buses, and even ferries. It also shares tips on how to arrange your trips in the most efficient way.
Before we start our journey, let us remind you that Profee money transfers from Italy to dozens of countries across the globe are faster than you may think!
Trains
Italy has a well-developed railway network that is comprised of high-speed and regular lines. Overall, the Italian railway companies Trenitalia and Italo Treno offer over 300 connections daily.
The best way to buy train tickets in Italy is online, at travel agencies, and authorised shops, as well as at railway station ticket offices or machines. There are also various Italy train passes available (more on this later).
Important train travel tips:
There are first and second travel classes, and you must find seating in the car corresponding to the class of your ticket.
Seating can be reserved, with an assigned seat, or open, where you can occupy any seat you like (except for those reserved).
Any kind of tickets or passes must be validated before boarding in a special machine available at railway stations or online.
Light railway in Italy: metro and trams
The fastest and most reliable public transport in major urban areas is the metro. Available in seven Italian cities, the largest metro network is in Milan and the oldest in Rome. Others are in Naples, Brescia, Turin, Catania, and Genoa.
Trams are another important element in Italy's public transport system, operating in cities like Rome, Florence, Turin, and Padua. They are eco-friendly and convenient, especially in central locations.
Buses and trolleybuses
Buses and trolleybuses are part of the Italian public transport system. While buses may be slower, they are cheaper and cover areas not accessible by other means of transport.
How to pay for a bus trip in Italy? You can buy tickets online via local public transport company apps or at tabaccherias (convenience stores). Always validate your ticket onboard.
If you are settling in Rome or Naples, get an Italian bank card to pay for public transport and more!
Ferries
A truly enjoyable way of getting around the Italian coast is by ferry. This mode of public transport is available on Lake Como and Lake Garda, and in cities like Venice and Naples. In Venice, you can board a vaporetto (shuttle ferry) to visit nearby islands or travel to the Venice Marco Polo Airport.
Italy travel passes
Train passes
If you plan to travel by train with multiple legs, consider buying an Italy train pass, allowing unlimited travel within a fixed period.
Some routes require seat reservations at an extra charge.
Certain routes only allow first-class passes (e.g., Rome's Fiumicino Airport Express train).
Passes must always be activated before boarding.
Urban transport passes
Many Italian cities offer transport passes valid for all means of transport, such as metro, buses, and trams. These can be daily, weekly, or monthly.
Tourist passes
Tourists can save money with passes that allow free or discounted transport and attraction entry. Examples include the Naples Pass, which offers city-wide transport and access to sites like Pompeii.
Useful apps
Check out these apps and enjoy your trips in Italy:
| App | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Trenitalia | Train routes, schedules, and tickets |
| Italo | High-speed train travel |
| Moovit & MooneyGo | All public transit systems |
| Milan's ATM & Rome's ATAC | Local metro, tram, and bus services |
| Profee | Money transfers while travelling |
If you agree that going mobile is inevitable, check out our list of budgeting apps.
With this guide, you are now equipped to explore Italy efficiently using its diverse public transport options. Enjoy your travels!
