Getting to Italy by train
Traveling by train to Italy is an eco-friendly alternative to flying, though it can be more expensive. Most trains from the UK and western Europe pass through Paris, then head into Italy via Milan.
- Eurostar to Paris: From London to Paris, the Eurostar runs multiple daily services. From there, high-speed trains continue to Milan and beyond.
- Paris-Milan connections: Travelers should allow at least 90 minutes to transfer between Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon when changing trains in Paris.
For detailed train information, The Man in Seat 61 is an excellent resource.
Rail passes for Italy
Interrail and Eurail passes offer unlimited travel within Italy and across other European countries.
- Interrail Pass: Available for European residents, with discounts for travelers aged 12–27 and over 60.
- Eurail Pass: For non-European residents, offering flexible travel options within Italy and beyond.
Both passes require seat reservations for high-speed and night trains.
Buses to Italy
Traveling to Italy by bus is a budget-friendly option, though it takes significantly longer than flying or taking the train. Several international bus companies operate routes to Italy from across Europe, including the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and Eastern Europe.
Buses from the UK to Italy
- FlixBus runs routes from London to Milan, Rome, Venice, and other cities, usually with one or two transfers in Paris, Munich, or Zurich. Travel times range from 24 to 36 hours, depending on the route and layovers.
- Eurolines (now part of FlixBus) previously operated direct routes but now mainly connects through Paris or Brussels before continuing to Italy.
- Departures leave from London Victoria Coach Station, and most services arrive at Milan Lampugnano Bus Station or Rome Tiburtina Bus Station.
Buses from France to Italy
- Paris to Milan or Rome is a popular route, taking 12 to 20 hours depending on the destination.
- FlixBus and MarinoBus run direct and indirect services.
- Major departure points include Paris Bercy Seine Bus Station and Lyon Perrache Bus Station.
Buses from Germany to Italy
Direct buses operate between Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Italian cities like Milan, Venice, and Rome.
Travel times vary:
- Munich to Milan: 7-8 hours
- Berlin to Rome: 22-24 hours
- Frankfurt to Florence: 15-18 hours
FlixBus and RegioJet offer frequent services.
Buses from Spain to Italy
- Direct buses run between Barcelona, Madrid, and major Italian cities.
- Barcelona to Milan takes around 14-16 hours, while Barcelona to Rome takes 22–24 hours.
- Operated by FlixBus, Alsa, and Eurolines.
Buses from Eastern Europe to Italy
Italy is well connected to Poland, Romania, Hungary, and the Balkans by long-distance buses.
Popular routes include:
- Warsaw to Milan (18-22 hours)
- Budapest to Venice (7-9 hours)
- Bucharest to Rome (30+ hours)
Operators include FlixBus, RegioJet, and Sindbad.
Things to know about bus travel to Italy
Tickets are cheapest when booked in advance. FlixBus often offers discount fares from €20–50 depending on the route.
Buses usually have free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reclining seats, but comfort levels vary.
Most international buses arrive at major terminals, such as:
- Milan Lampugnano Bus Station
- Rome Tiburtina Bus Station
- Florence Villa Costanza Bus Terminal
- Venice Tronchetto Bus Station
While buses take much longer than flights or trains, they offer an affordable way to get to Italy from all over Europe.