Do I have to print my ticket or can I just show it on my smartphone?
For most Italian trains—including high-speed Frecciarossa, Italo, and Intercity trains—you do not need to print your ticket. You can simply show the conductor the PNR code or QR code on your smartphone or tablet. However, specific regional and international routes may have different validation rules that require a printed copy or a digital check-in.
Ticketless Travel: High-Speed and Intercity Trains
The majority of tickets purchased for travel within Italy are "Ticketless" (E-tickets). When you book high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca) or Intercity trains, you receive a confirmation email containing a PNR code (Passenger Name Record).
Onboard the train, the conductor will ask for your PNR. You can present this code directly from your mobile device. We recommend taking a screenshot of your confirmation email or saving the ticket to your Apple Wallet or Android device to ensure you can access it even without an internet connection.
Regional Trains: Digital Tickets and Validation
Trenitalia Regional trains operate differently. If you choose a Digital Regional Ticket, it is strictly tied to a specific train and time.
- Automatic Check-In: As of late 2024, most digital regional tickets automatically "validate" at the train's scheduled departure time.
- Dynamic QR Code: Once validated, your ticket generates a dynamic QR code (often with a moving green bar) that you must show to the conductor.
- No Printing Required: You do not need to print these tickets, but you must be able to display the live QR code on your phone.
Important Warning: Battery Life & Fines
If you choose to use a mobile ticket, you are responsible for keeping your device charged. If your battery dies and you cannot produce a valid PNR or QR code when inspected, you may be considered as traveling without a ticket and subject to a fine (often 50€ or more, plus the ticket price).
When Do I Need to Print My Ticket?
While rare, there are specific scenarios where a physical ticket is required or highly recommended:
| Train Type | Mobile Accepted? | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| High-Speed (Frecciarossa/Italo) | Yes | Show PNR code from email/app. |
| Intercity & Domestic Night | Yes | Show PNR code from email/app. |
| Regional (Digital Ticket) | Yes | Show Dynamic QR Code (Auto-validated). |
| International (Cross-Border) | Varies | Check email. If PDF is attached, print it to be safe. |
| Print-at-Station Tickets | No | Must use PNR at station kiosk to print physical ticket. |
International Routes: For cross-border trains (e.g., EuroCity to Switzerland or Austria), rules vary by operator. Although many now accept digital codes, carrying a printed copy of your PDF ticket is a smart backup plan to avoid issues with foreign conductors or border controls.