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Rome’s best kept secrets - Your guide to exciting train trips under 4 hours

Day trips from Rome by train

Beyond exploring the Eternal City, some of Italy’s most charming destinations are just a short day trip away from Rome. Trains are an accessible and enjoyable way to explore Italy, giving you a chance to take the scenic route and avoiding the hassle of airports.

Why travel by train in Rome

Connectivity: Trains depart from stations located in and around the heart of the city, making it easy to kickstart your journey.
Flexibility: Many day trip destinations are well-served by frequent departures, giving you freedom with planning your itinerary.
Affordability: Train travel in Rome can be cost-effective, especially if you book in advance or choose regional trains.
Efficiency: Traveling by train allows you to rest or read, keeping you fresh for exploration. It also eliminates the need to rent a car or understand local traffic laws.
Comfort: Trains are more spacious compared to buses or cars, and are better suited for people with mobility issues.

Short on time? Quick getaways from Rome

Florence: A treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture, charming streets, vibrant markets, and world-class dining, is what makes it a captivating destination for history, art, and food lovers alike.
Naples: Home to the world’s best Neapolitan pizza, it also serves as the gateway for well-preserved Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and the stunning Amalfi Coast.
Assisi: Set in the tranquil Umbrian hills, Assisi offers a perfect blend of religious history, medieval architecture, and peaceful countryside charm.

Train tickets

The Eurail Pass is a great choice for travelers, as the pass offers flexibility, convenience, and unlimited train travel across Italy and 30+ other European countries. If you’re a European resident, opt for an Interrail Pass. To understand the difference between the two passes and assess your eligibility, find out more here.

Types of trains that operate in Rome

Train type	Speed	Popular day trip destinations	Known for	Services offered	Operating hours (Subject to change)	Frequency	Service levels	Ticket availability
Frecciarossa (Red Arrow)	300 km/h	Florence, Napoli, Bologna, Verona, Salerno	High-speed trains, Punctuality, Comfort	Air conditioning, Ample luggage space, Entertainment, & Catering services	5am-11pm	Frequent departures	Executive, Business, Premium & Standard	3 to 6 months in advance
Frecciargento (Silver Arrow)	250 km/h	Florence, Napoli, Pisa, Salerno	High-speed trains, Wide network coverage, Comfort	Air conditioning, Reclining chairs, Entertainment, & Catering services	6am-9pm	Frequent departures	Standard, First Class	3 to 6 months in advance
Frecciabianca (White Arrow)	200 km/h	Pisa, Cinque Terre, Genoa	Extensive coverage, Reliability, Convenient connections	Air conditioning, Ample luggage space, Spacious seats, & Accessible bistro	5:30am-10pm	Occasional departures	First Class, Second Class	2 to 4 months in advance
Intercity	160-200 km/h	Florence, Napoli, Sicily, Milan, Palermo	Affordability, Extensive coverage, Accessibility	Air conditioning, Spacious seats, Family area, & Bicycle transport	5am-midnight	Occasional departures	First Class, Second Class	4 months in advance
Regionale	100-160 km/h	Florence, Napoli, Venice, Pisa, Verona	Affordability, Extensive coverage, No need for advance booking	Air conditioning, Spacious seats, Luggage space, & Bicycle transport	5am-midnight	Frequent departures	Single service level	Few weeks in advance

Major train stations in Rome

Roma Termini: Located in the Esquilino district, it is the largest train station serving as a central hub for Italy’s high-speed, regional, and international trains. It is also well-connected to Rome's public transportation, including the metro, buses, and taxis.
Roma Tiburtina: About 4 kms from Roma Termini, this station can be found in the Nomentano district. Rome’s second-largest train station, it serves as a major hub for high-speed trains, as well as for regional and international routes.
Roma Ostiense: This station connects to regional trains heading toward Fiumicino Airport and the coastal town of Ostia. Additionally, it serves as a transfer point for both high-speed and regional trains.

Lesser-known destinations from Rome by train

Viterbo

With a town center full of cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, Viterbo is famous for its natural thermal springs and rich papal history.

Distance: 110 kms from Rome | Travel by: Regional trains (1.5 to 2 hours)

Orvieto

One of Italy's most picturesque hilltop towns, Orvieto is famous for its impressive Gothic architecture, underground caves, and local wines.

Distance: 125 kms from Rome | Travel by: Regional trains (1 to 1.5 hours)

Assisi

Nestled in the Umbrian hills, this charming Italian town is known for its spiritual atmosphere and medieval beauty. It is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and cultural connection.

Distance: 179 kms from Rome | Travel by: Regional trains (2 to 2.5 hours)

Siena

The city’s well-preserved medieval atmosphere transports visitors back in time, with narrow cobblestone streets and charming piazzas. Siena's love for the arts and building community is on full display at its annual festivals, aided by cuisine, and craftsmanship.

Distance: 239 kms from Rome | Travel by: Regional trains (3 to 3.5 hours)

Verona

Verona's picturesque streets are lined with historic buildings and bustling cafes, which blend medieval and Renaissance architecture. It is also well-known for being the romantic backdrop for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

Distance: 506 kms from Rome | Travel by: High-speed trains (3 to 3.5 hours)

Tips to make the most of your train journey

Eurail train interior with 1st class seats, Paris cityscape visible through window.

To avail the cheapest fares, make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially for high-speed trains.
Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your departure time, to easily navigate larger stations like Roma Termini.
Travel light and make use of luggage storage facilities available at different stations.
Keep an eye on your belongings, especially at busy stations.
In case of regional trains, remember to validate your tickets before boarding.

Florence Cathedral facade with tourists on guided tour.

With frequent train connections, these destinations offer a refreshing change of pace without venturing far away from Rome.

Florence
Naples
Pompeii
Sorrento
Milan
Tivoli
Viterbo
Orvieto

Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica with view of St. Mark's Campanile in Venice.

These destinations allow you to dive deeper into Italy’s thriving culture and history.

Salerno
Pisa
Verona
Bologna
Venice
Assisi
Siena

Glossary of important terms

All of Rome’s major train stations have signages in both Italian and English, making navigation easier for international travelers. This list will further help you ask the right questions and reach your destination hassle-free!

Stazione: Station
Binario: Platform
Biglietteria: Ticket office
Fermata: Train stop
Orario: Schedule or timetable
Partenze: Departures
Arrivi: Arrivals
Uscita: Exit
Carrozza: Train coach
Prenotazione: Reservation
Bagagli: Luggage
Treno in ritardo: Delayed train
Firenze: Florence in Italian
Napoli: Naples in Italian

Frequently asked questions about train trips from Rome

How far in advance should I book train tickets for day trips from Rome?

It’s recommended to book tickets at least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially to unlock the best prices for high-speed trains.

What are the best places to visit near Rome for history lovers?

History buffs will enjoy visiting Florence, Pompeii, Tivoli, Viterbo and Assisi.

Are the trains from Rome accessible for travelers with mobility issues?

Yes, Italy’s train system, especially high-speed trains, are accessible for travelers with mobility issues. However, it’s always a good idea to check about resources available at each destination in advance.

Are there guided tours available for these day trips?

Yes, many destinations offer guided tours to enhance your experience. These tours often include local guides, skip-the-line access and interactive elements.

How many train operators are available in Rome?

Rome’s well-connected railway system is primarily operated by two major train companies - Trenitalia (government-owned) and Italo (privately-owned).

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