Maps of Train Routes in Italy and the High-Speed Network
Yes, ItaliaRail provides resources to help you visualize the Italian rail network. While a single map containing every regional track in Italy would be too dense to be useful, we provide clear maps of the High-Speed (Alta Velocità) network that most travelers use to connect major cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, and Naples.
The Italian rail network is extensive, reaching nearly every corner of the country. To navigate it effectively, it helps to understand the two main layers of the system: the High-Speed (Frecce) lines and the Regional lines.
View the Italy Rail Map
For a visual overview of the major connections, you can view our dedicated Italy Rail Map. This map highlights the primary high-speed arteries connecting northern, central, and southern Italy.
Route Availability
Routes change regularly, particularly on the expanding High-Speed network. If a specific small town does not appear on the general map, use the ItaliaRail search bar to confirm connectivity. The system recognizes both English and Italian station names.
High-Speed vs. Regional Routes
Most visitors spend the majority of their time on the High-Speed network, which is operated by Trenitalia's "Le Frecce" trains. Understanding the difference between these and regional trains is key to planning your route map.
| Feature | High-Speed (Frecce) | Regional (Regionale) |
|---|---|---|
| Network Coverage | Connects major hubs (Milan, Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples). | Connects small towns, rural areas, and local stops. |
| Primary Trains | Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca. | Regionale, Regionale Veloce. |
| Reservations | Mandatory (Included with ticket). | Not required (Open seating). |
| Speed | Up to 300 km/h (190 mph). | Slower speeds, frequent stops. |
Major Italian Rail Corridors
The following routes represent the "backbone" of the Italian rail system. These are served frequently by Frecciarossa trains and are the most common routes plotted on traveler itineraries:
- Rome to Milan: Connects the capital to the industrial north in under 3 hours.
- Rome to Florence: A short 1.5-hour journey through Tuscany.
- Rome to Venice: Crosses the Apennines to the lagoon in roughly 3 hours and 45 minutes.
- Rome to Naples: A quick 1-hour trip south to the gateway of the Amalfi Coast.
- Milan to Venice: Connects the two northern tourist giants in about 2.5 hours.
How do I find a route to a small town not on the map?
If a destination is not visible on the main High-Speed map, it is likely served by a Regional line. Simply type the city name into the search bar on ItaliaRail. If the town has a station, it will appear in the auto-fill options. If no station appears, check if the town is accessible via a bus link from a nearby larger train station.