Transport...go there, travel in the country and after
Italy has a comprehensive and reliable transport infrastructure, with good public transport options within the larger cities. Certain public holidays may affect your journeys.
by Air
Check here for flights to the main airports from USA , UK , South America and The Netherlands.
Alitalia, the national carrier, and Meridiana operate domestic flights that link many of the major cities and islands of Italy. There are over 30 airports within Italy providing comrpehensive links to European and North African cities.
by Train
All European countries are connected with eachother by rail. Its very easy to travel by train from one country to another. For train information or tickets
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Italy itself has an extensive rail network that connects most of the towns and cities in the country. In comparison with other European countries ticket prices are relatively cheap.
The most straightforward pass for extensive touring within Italy is the TrenItalia Pass, which allows you unlimited use of the Italian train (TrenItalia) network. The pass is only available to non-Italian nationals. It covers periods of four to ten days' travel within a two month period. TrenItalia also subscribes to the InterRail and EuroDomino schemes that cover the continent as a whole.
Italian trains fall into distinct classes. For long distance journeys InterCity trains (IC) are more expensive but a lot faster and more comfortable. Travelling first class means that you'll get reclining seats and more legroom. For long overnight journeys within Europe you should try to book a sleeping car (couchette).
Eurostar trains connecting the major cities are the fastest and most expensive trains. Reservations on these trains are compulsory on Fridays, Sundays and holidays and advisable at other times.
by Bus
Run by a public company in each city, buses are generally the most economical and, on short journeys, often the quickest way to get around urban areas. In cities one week passes are available that cover bus, tram and underground journeys within that city. These are excellent value if you are going to be based in one place for more than three days. Ask for advice immediately on arrival in a particular city.
The national network lags behind the train in terms of convenience and comfort and few tourists use the public bus for long distance travel.
Local and national departure points tend to be outside major train stations where there are also information booths and timetables.
By Car or Camper
If you arrive by plane and you want to hire a car there are good possibilities at the several airports. Click here to check or book cars at every airport.
If you do decide to drive you must carry your national licence with you at all times. Holders of old-style green European licences and non-EU licences must obtain an International Driving Licence.
The minimum driving age is 18. Almost all motorways (Autostrades) are toll paying. Payment can be made in cash or with a "Viacard", which can be bought, from tollbooths, fuel stations, tourist offices and some banks.
All vehicles are required to carry red warning triangles and if coming from abroad must bear a sticker stating the country of origin. It is also necessary to carry snow chains if travelling in areas where they might be needed.
Driving is on the right and you must overtake on the left. Distances and speed limits throughout the country are indicated in kilometres The speed limit in Italy is: 130km per hour (81mph) on motorways, 110km per hour (68mph) on main roads outside towns, 90km per hour (56mph) on secondary roads and 50km per hour (31mph) in built up areas. The wearing of seat belts, where fitted, is compulsory.
Be aware that when filling up your car with fuel, "gasolio" refers to diesel and "benzina" is petrol.
In event of breakdown call the A.C.I (Italian Automobile Club), Tel: 803-116
by Boat
There are many ferry and hydrofoil companies providing services from ports along the mainland to all main Mediterrannean islands as well as Tunisia, Greece, Albania, Croatia, Turkey and Malta. With such a massive coastline you will have to check with local transport operators as to the various scheduled ferry services available to you.
