Train from Rome to Florence: High-Speed Trains, Tickets, Timetable & Travel Guide

Train from Rome to Florence – Route Overview

The train from Rome to Florence is one of Italy’s busiest high-speed rail routes, connecting the capital with the heart of Tuscany. Covering approximately 143 miles (231 km), the fastest trains complete the journey in about 1 hour 22 minutes, while average travel time depends on service type. With over 110–150 daily departures, this route offers extremely frequent and flexible travel throughout the day.

Travelling by Train from Rome to Florence

Travelling by train from Rome to Florence is one of the easiest, fastest, and most comfortable ways to explore central Italy. The route is served by modern high-speed trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo, offering frequent departures and smooth connections throughout the day.

Most trains run direct and take passengers north through the Lazio and Tuscany regions, making rail travel simple and stress-free. High-speed trains are the fastest option, while Intercity and regional trains provide a slower but more budget-friendly alternative.

Trains usually depart from Rome Termini or Rome Tiburtina and arrive at Florence Santa Maria Novella, located close to Florence’s historic center. Thanks to short travel times and frequent departures, this route is perfect for a day trip from Rome to Florence, business travel, or longer journeys across Italy.

Cheapest Train from Rome to Florence

The cheapest train tickets from Rome to Florence usually start from around €19–€25 when booked in advance. Prices tend to increase closer to departure, with same-day tickets averaging €45–€70 depending on train type and demand.

Even cheaper alternatives such as buses are available, but trains remain the fastest and most convenient travel option.

Fastest Train from Rome to Florence

The fastest train from Rome to Florence takes approximately 1 hour 22 minutes on modern high-speed rail services such as Frecciarossa and Italo. These trains run direct with no changes and offer a smooth, high-speed journey between the two cities.

For travelers prioritizing speed and convenience, high-speed trains are the best way to travel this route.

Train Timetable & Schedule from Rome to Florence

The train timetable from Rome to Florence is one of the most frequent and flexible in Italy, with trains running throughout the day from early morning until late night. Thanks to high-speed rail services, travelers can choose from 110–150 daily trains, making it easy to plan a trip at any time.

Whether you are catching an early train, traveling midday, or taking a late evening departure, the Rome to Florence train schedule offers excellent flexibility for tourists, business travelers, and day-trip planners.

High-speed trains such as Frecciarossa and Italo operate most frequently, while Intercity and regional trains provide additional departures at slower speeds and lower prices.

Rome to Florence Train Times

Below are typical departures based on frequent high-speed services. Actual train times may vary slightly depending on the travel date and operator.

Rome to Florence Train Ticket Prices & Costs

The train ticket price from Rome to Florence varies depending on train type, booking time, travel class, and demand. In general, tickets can start from as low as €19–€25 with advance booking, while last-minute high-speed tickets may cost €60–€120+.

Both Frecciarossa (Trenitalia) and Italo high-speed trains offer multiple pricing tiers, allowing travelers to choose between budget, standard, and premium comfort options.

Compare Train, Bus, and Flight from Rome to Florence

When choosing how to travel from Rome to Florence, travelers usually compare train, bus, and flight based on total travel time, ticket price, comfort, and convenience. The high-speed train is the most popular option because it offers fast city-center to city-center travel with frequent departures. Buses are the cheapest option but take longer, while flights are usually the least practical due to airport transfers and waiting time.

Distance: 231 km / 143 miles

Train Companies from Rome to Florence

Several train companies operate trains from Rome to Florence, including high-speed, intercity, and regional services. The most popular operators are Italo and Frecciarossa, which run fast direct trains between Rome and Florence, while Regionale, Intercity, and Frecciargento offer slower but more affordable alternatives. Each train type varies in speed, ticket price, and onboard comfort, allowing travelers to choose based on budget, travel time, and flexibility.

Rome to Florence Train Stations (Departure & Arrival)

Understanding the departure and arrival train stations is an important part of planning your journey from Rome to Florence by train. Both cities are served by well-connected, centrally located stations, making the trip smooth from start to finish. Most high-speed and long-distance trains run between Rome’s main stations and Florence Santa Maria Novella, the primary station in Florence.

Rome has multiple departure stations, but Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina handle the majority of trains on this route. In Florence, most trains arrive right in the city center, allowing travelers to start sightseeing almost immediately after arrival.

Departure Stations in Rome

Roma Termini
Roma Termini is Rome’s largest and busiest train station and the main departure point for trains from Rome to Florence. It is located in the city center and is extremely easy to reach by metro, bus, or taxi. Most high-speed trains, including Frecciarossa and Italo, depart from Roma Termini. The station offers plenty of shops, cafés, luggage services, and waiting areas, making it convenient for travelers arriving early.

Roma Tiburtina
Roma Tiburtina is Rome’s second-largest station and another key departure point for high-speed trains to Florence. Some trains start here instead of Termini, and many others make a short stop before continuing north. Tiburtina is well connected by metro and is often less crowded than Termini, which some travelers prefer.

Other Rome Stations
A small number of regional or Intercity services may depart from stations such as Roma Ostiense or Roma San Pietro, but these are less common for direct Rome–Florence travel and usually involve longer journey times.

Arrival Stations in Florence

Florence Santa Maria Novella (SMN)
Florence Santa Maria Novella is the main arrival station for trains from Rome to Florence. It is located right in the heart of the city, within walking distance of major attractions like the Duomo and the historic center. Almost all high-speed trains arrive here, making it the most convenient option for travelers.

Florence Campo di Marte
Some trains, especially certain Frecciargento or regional services, stop at Florence Campo di Marte. This station is located slightly outside the historic center but is still well connected by local transport. It is less common for high-speed services compared to Santa Maria Novella.

Florence Rifredi
Florence Rifredi is mainly used by regional and Intercity trains. It is farther from the city center and typically not the preferred arrival station unless you are staying nearby or using a slower service.

Rome to Florence Train Stations Overview

Rome Departure Station City Area Common Train Types Best For
Roma Termini City center Frecciarossa, Italo, IC Most travelers, easy access
Roma Tiburtina North Rome Frecciarossa, Italo Less crowded departures
Roma Ostiense South Rome Regional, Intercity Budget routes, fewer trains

Florence Arrival Station City Area Common Train Types Best For
Santa Maria Novella City center Frecciarossa, Italo, IC Walking access to attractions
Campo di Marte East Florence Frecciargento, Regional Alternative arrivals
Rifredi North Florence Regional, Intercity Slower, budget services

Choosing the right departure and arrival station can make your trip from Rome to Florence much smoother. For most travelers, Roma Termini to Florence Santa Maria Novella is the fastest and most convenient option. In the next section, we’ll look at the onboard experience and train classes, so you know what to expect once you’re on the train.

Onboard Experience & Train Classes

The onboard experience on trains from Rome to Florence is one of the main reasons travelers choose rail over driving or flying. High-speed trains are designed for comfort, efficiency, and convenience, making the journey feel short and relaxed. Whether you choose Frecciarossa or Italo, you can expect modern interiors, comfortable seating, and a range of services that suit both short trips and business travel.

Most high-speed trains on this route offer air-conditioned carriages, free Wi-Fi (with occasional drops in tunnels), power outlets at seats, restrooms in every coach, and dedicated luggage areas for suitcases and backpacks. A café bar or onboard service provides snacks and drinks, and higher classes include additional perks that enhance the travel experience.

Frecciarossa (Trenitalia) – Classes & Experience

Frecciarossa trains are Trenitalia’s flagship high-speed service and are widely used on the Rome to Florence route. They offer four travel classes, allowing passengers to choose between affordability and premium comfort.

Frecciarossa Standard provides comfortable reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and access to luggage racks. It is ideal for most travelers who want speed and comfort at a reasonable price.

Frecciarossa Premium includes everything in Standard, plus more legroom, quieter coaches, and complimentary snacks or drinks on some services.

Frecciarossa Business is designed for work and relaxation, offering wider seats, extra space, a quieter environment, and enhanced onboard service.

Frecciarossa Executive is the most luxurious option, featuring large leather seats, access to exclusive lounges at major stations, gourmet meals, and private meeting areas on selected trains.

Italo – Classes & Experience

Italo is a modern private high-speed operator and a popular alternative to Frecciarossa. Italo trains are known for sleek interiors and flexible seating options.

Italo Smart Class offers comfortable reclining seats, footrests, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and spacious luggage compartments.

Italo Prima Business Class provides extra legroom, quieter coaches, priority boarding, and complimentary snacks and beverages.

Italo Club Executive (Club Ambience) is the top-tier class, offering premium seating, more personal space, access to Italo Club lounges, and high-end onboard service.

Regional & Intercity Trains – What to Expect

Regional and Intercity trains are slower and less luxurious, but they can be a good option for budget travelers. Seating is more basic, and amenities are limited compared to high-speed trains. Wi-Fi may not always be available, and food service is minimal or nonexistent. However, these trains still offer reliable service and allow passengers to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

Onboard Experience & Train Class Comparison

Train Operator / Class Seating Comfort Wi-Fi & Power Food & Drinks Best For
Frecciarossa Standard Comfortable reclining Wi-Fi, power outlets Snacks available Most travelers
Frecciarossa Premium Extra legroom Wi-Fi, power outlets Complimentary snacks Added comfort
Frecciarossa Business Wide, quiet seating Wi-Fi, power outlets Enhanced service Business travelers
Frecciarossa Executive Luxury leather seats Wi-Fi, power outlets Gourmet dining Premium experience
Italo Smart Reclining seats Wi-Fi, power outlets Snacks available Budget high-speed
Italo Prima Business Extra space, quieter Wi-Fi, power outlets Complimentary snacks Comfort seekers
Italo Club Executive Premium spacious seats Wi-Fi, power outlets Premium service Luxury travel
Regional / Intercity Basic seating Limited availability Minimal service Lowest fares

Overall, the onboard experience on trains from Rome to Florence is smooth and enjoyable, especially on high-speed services. Choosing the right train class depends on your budget, comfort preferences, and whether you want to work, relax, or simply reach Florence as quickly as possible.

Direct vs Connecting Trains (Rome ↔ Florence)

When planning a train journey between Rome and Florence, one of the key decisions is whether to take a direct train or a connecting train. The good news is that this is one of Italy’s most straightforward rail routes, with the vast majority of services running directly between the two cities. Still, understanding the differences can help you choose the option that best fits your schedule, budget, and travel style.

Direct Trains: The Most Popular Choice

Direct trains from Rome to Florence are the preferred option for most travelers. These services run non-stop or with very limited intermediate stops and are operated mainly by high-speed trains such as Frecciarossa and Italo.

Direct trains usually depart from Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina and arrive at Florence Santa Maria Novella. Because there are no transfers, the journey is faster, simpler, and less stressful—especially if you’re traveling with luggage or on a tight schedule.

Key benefits of direct trains include:

• Shortest travel time, often just 1 hour 21 minutes
• No risk of missed connections
• Frequent departures throughout the day
• More comfortable onboard experience

For day trips, business travel, or first-time visitors to Italy, direct trains are almost always the best choice.

Connecting Trains: Slower but Sometimes Cheaper

Connecting trains involve at least one transfer, usually at an intermediate station such as Rome Tiburtina, Bologna, or another regional hub. These routes are more common with Intercity or Regional trains and are generally slower than direct high-speed services.

While connecting trains take longer, they can sometimes be slightly cheaper, especially if you’re booking at short notice or traveling on a tight budget. However, transfers add complexity to the journey and increase the total travel time.

Connecting services may be suitable if:

• You are looking for the lowest possible fare
• You don’t mind a longer journey
• You are flexible with time and connections

How Often Are Connections Required?

On the Rome–Florence route, connections are rarely necessary. On most days, more than 100 trains run between the two cities, and the majority of them are direct. Connecting trains usually appear only when choosing slower regional services or certain Intercity routes.

Direct vs Connecting Train Comparison

Journey Type Transfers Required Typical Travel Time Ticket Cost Range Best For
Direct train None 1h 21m – 1h 35m Medium to high Speed, simplicity
Connecting train 1 or more 2h 45m – 5h Low to medium Budget travelers

Which Option Should You Choose?

If your priority is speed, comfort, and convenience, a direct high-speed train from Rome to Florence is the clear winner. These trains are frequent, reliable, and designed to get you from city center to city center with minimal effort.

If you’re traveling on a strict budget and don’t mind a longer journey, connecting trains can still get you there reliably—just with more time and planning involved.

Train vs Bus vs Flight (Rome–Florence Comparison)

When traveling between Rome and Florence, passengers often compare train, bus, and flight to decide which option best fits their schedule, budget, and comfort needs. While all three are possible, the train is widely considered the most practical and efficient way to travel between these two cities, especially when factoring in total travel time and convenience.

Traveling by Train

Taking the train from Rome to Florence is the most popular choice. High-speed trains connect the two city centers directly, avoiding airport transfers and long security procedures. With frequent departures throughout the day and short journey times, trains are ideal for tourists, business travelers, and even day trips.

Key advantages of train travel include:

• City-center to city-center travel
• Short and predictable journey times
• High comfort level and onboard amenities
• No baggage check-in delays

Traveling by Bus

Buses are usually the cheapest way to travel from Rome to Florence, but they take significantly longer. Most buses depart from stations outside the city center and can be affected by traffic, especially during peak travel hours. While buses can be appealing for budget travelers, they are less comfortable and far slower than trains.

Buses may be suitable if:

• You are traveling on a very tight budget
• You are not in a hurry
• You don’t mind longer travel times

Traveling by Flight

Flying between Rome and Florence is generally the least practical option. Although flight time itself is short, the total journey becomes much longer when you include travel to and from airports, security checks, and waiting times. Flights are also less frequent and often more expensive than high-speed train tickets.

Flights are rarely chosen unless:

• You are connecting to an international flight
• You find a rare discounted airfare
• You are already near the airport

Rome to Florence: Transport Comparison

Transport Option Total Travel Time Average Cost Convenience Level Best For
Train (High-speed) 1h 21m – 1h 35m Medium Very high Most travelers
Bus 3h – 4h 30m Low Medium Budget travel
Flight 3h – 5h+ (total) Medium to high Low Connections only

Which Is the Best Option?

For most travelers, the train clearly stands out as the best way to travel from Rome to Florence. It offers the fastest door-to-door journey, frequent departures, and a comfortable experience without the stress of airports or long road trips.

Buses can save money but require more time, while flights rarely make sense for such a short distance. If you value speed, comfort, and simplicity, traveling by train is the smartest choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (PAA-Focused)

Below are the most commonly asked questions travelers search for when planning a train journey from Rome to Florence. These answers are written using language, phrasing, and facts reflected across Omio and Rail Europe, focusing on clarity, accuracy, and featured-snippet optimization.

Rome to Florence Train FAQs (Quick Answers)

How long is the train from Rome to Florence?
The train journey from Rome to Florence takes as little as 1 hour 21 minutes on the fastest high-speed trains. The average travel time is around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the train type and number of stops.

What is the distance between Rome and Florence by train?
The distance between Rome and Florence is approximately 230–231 kilometers (143 miles). High-speed trains cover this distance very efficiently using Italy’s modern rail network.

Is there a direct train from Rome to Florence?
Yes, there are many direct trains from Rome to Florence every day. Most high-speed services operated by Frecciarossa and Italo run non-stop, making it easy to travel without changing trains.

What is the fastest train from Rome to Florence?
The fastest trains from Rome to Florence are Frecciarossa and Italo high-speed trains, with the quickest journey taking around 1 hour 21 minutes.

How often do trains run from Rome to Florence?
Trains run very frequently throughout the day, with departures every 5 to 30 minutes. On average, there are 110–145 trains per day, making this one of Italy’s busiest rail routes.

What is the first and last train from Rome to Florence?
The first train usually departs around 05:35, while the last train leaves close to 20:55–23:54, depending on the day and operator.

How much does a train ticket from Rome to Florence cost?
Train ticket prices vary based on train type and booking time. Cheap tickets can start as low as €6–€10 on regional or promotional fares, while high-speed tickets typically range from €25 to €50+ when booked in advance.

When should I book train tickets from Rome to Florence?
It’s best to book 30–49 days in advance to secure the lowest fares. Prices tend to rise closer to the departure date, especially for high-speed trains.

Which train companies operate between Rome and Florence?
The main train operators on this route are Trenitalia (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Regionale, Intercity) and Italo. Both offer frequent and reliable services.

Which stations do trains depart from in Rome and arrive in Florence?
Most trains depart from Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina and arrive at Florence Santa Maria Novella. Some regional and intercity services may arrive at Florence Campo di Marte or Florence Rifredi.

Is the train from Rome to Florence scenic?
Yes, parts of the journey offer beautiful views of the Italian countryside, especially when passing through Tuscany. While high-speed trains focus on speed, the scenery is still enjoyable.

Is the train better than flying from Rome to Florence?
Yes, for most travelers, the train is faster, cheaper, and more convenient than flying. Trains run city-center to city-center and avoid airport security and transfer time.

Do I need to validate my train ticket?
High-speed train e-tickets do not need validation. However, paper tickets for regional trains must be validated before boarding to avoid fines.

Are there luggage limits on Rome to Florence trains?
There are no strict luggage limits on Italian trains. Passengers can bring suitcases onboard and store them in overhead racks or designated luggage areas.

Conclusion & Final Travel Tips

Traveling by train from Rome to Florence is one of the easiest, fastest, and most comfortable ways to move between two of Italy’s most iconic cities. With frequent departures, modern high-speed trains, and centrally located stations, the rail journey allows travelers to avoid airport stress and long highway drives while enjoying a smooth and efficient ride through the Italian countryside.

High-speed services operated by Frecciarossa and Italo cover the route in as little as 1 hour 21 minutes, while regional and intercity trains provide more budget-friendly alternatives for flexible travelers. With trains running every few minutes throughout the day, planning a day trip or longer stay in Florence is extremely convenient.

Final Travel Tips for Rome → Florence Train Journey

Book tickets early
Train tickets are usually cheapest when booked 30 to 49 days in advance, especially for high-speed services.

Choose the right station
Departing from Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina and arriving at Florence Santa Maria Novella places you directly in the city centers.

Arrive early at the station
Arriving 20–30 minutes before departure gives you enough time to find your platform, grab a coffee, and board comfortably.

Compare train classes
Upgrading to Business or Premium Class can be worth it for extra legroom, quiet cabins, and complimentary snacks on longer or early-morning journeys.

Use digital tickets
E-tickets on high-speed trains do not require validation and are easy to store on your phone for stress-free boarding.

Pack smart
There are no strict luggage limits, but keeping bags manageable makes boarding and storage easier, especially during peak hours.

Sit by the window
A window seat lets you enjoy views as the route passes through Lazio and Tuscany, adding to the travel experience.

Avoid peak hours if possible
Midday and late evening trains are often quieter and may offer better seat availability and pricing.

Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a longer stay, the Rome to Florence train route offers a reliable, comfortable, and scenic travel experience. With excellent onboard amenities, frequent schedules, and competitive pricing, traveling by train remains the preferred choice for locals and visitors alike when moving between these two historic Italian cities.