What is the seating like on Italian trains?
Seating depends on the type of train. High-speed (Frecciarossa, Italo) and Intercity trains require assigned seating, which is automatically included in your ticket price. Regional trains generally have unreserved, open seating where you can sit anywhere in your designated class. High-speed trains offer multiple classes ranging from standard 2-2 layouts to spacious 1-1 executive recliners.
Do I need a seat reservation?
It depends on the specific train service you are booking. Understanding the difference between reserved and unreserved trains is critical to avoiding fines.
- High-Speed (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca) & Intercity: Reservations are mandatory. Your ticket will include a specific carriage and seat number (e.g., Carrozza 3, Posti 12A). You must sit in your assigned seat.
- Regional (Regionale): Reservations are not available. Seating is first-come, first-served. You may sit in any available seat within the class (1st or 2nd) indicated on your ticket.
Important: Regional Ticket Validation
Since Regional trains do not have assigned seats or specific times on physical paper tickets, you must validate your paper ticket at the green/yellow machines on the platform before boarding. If you have a digital Regional ticket, you must complete the mandatory online check-in via your confirmation email or the app before your train departs. Failure to do so may result in a fine.
What are the seating classes on Frecciarossa trains?
Trenitalia's flagship Frecciarossa trains offer four distinct levels of service. All seats on these trains are reserved and include power outlets.
| Class Name | Layout | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (2nd Class) | 2-2 (4 seats per row) | Cloth or faux-leather seats, tray tables, free Wi-Fi access. |
| Premium | 2-2 (4 seats per row) | Leather seats, welcome drink/snack included, luggage storage. |
| Business (1st Class) | 2-1 (3 seats per row) | Wider leather seats, significantly more legroom, quiet zones (Area Silenzio) available. |
| Executive | 1-1 (2 seats per row) | Rotating captain's chairs, meal service at seat, station lounge access. |
What is the layout on Intercity and Regional trains?
Intercity Trains: These trains connect major cities at slower speeds than the Frecce lines. Seating is usually divided into First and Second class. You will often find two types of carriages:
- Open Saloon: Standard airline-style seating with a center aisle.
- Compartments: Enclosed cabins with 6 seats (3 facing 3) and a sliding glass door opening to a side corridor.
Regional Trains: These are commuter trains. They generally offer Second Class only, though some longer routes have a First Class section. The seats are functional and simple, often arranged in groups of four (two facing two) with less luggage space than high-speed trains.
Can I choose my specific seat?
Yes, if you are booking a high-speed or Intercity train. When booking through ItaliaRail, you can often view a seat map to select your preferred spot (window, aisle, or table).
Note on Facing Direction: While you can choose a specific seat number, the direction the train travels often changes at terminal stations (like Florence SMN or Milan Centrale). Therefore, it is not always possible to guarantee whether your seat will be forward-facing or backward-facing for the entire journey.