Best Train From Rome to Florence: Which Option Is Right for You?

Wondering what the best train from Rome to Florence is?

We’ve made this trip many times, and each time we chose the Frecciarossa high-speed train.

We've put together this complete guide to help you plan your trip.

We usually take Frecciarossa trains when traveling from Rome to Florence, and each time we love the fast and comfortable ride!

⋙ We know exactly how long the journey takes

⋙ Find out how frequent the departures are throughout the day

⋙ We compare the different train options to help you choose the best one

⋙ Everything you need to know about tickets is covered here

⋙ Read about our firsthand experience travelling on the Frecciarossa

How long is the train ride from Rome to Florence?

The train from Rome to Florence takes about 1.5 hours on high-speed services (both Trenitalia Frecciarossa and Italo).

Slower trains can take up to 4 hours, but most travellers choose the fast option for convenience.

It’s so quick and easy that it works well even for a Rome to Florence day trip, letting you explore the city and return to Rome the same evening.

Wondering how often trains run from Rome to Florence in 2026?

You’re in luck—it’s one of Italy’s busiest routes.

High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo run from around 6 AM to 10 PM, with departures every 15–30 minutes during peak times.

Super easy to fit into any travel schedule!

Be aware! Strikes in train travel in Italy happens regularly, but they are always preannounced, at least one week ahead.  

👉 See what happens if you miss the train from Rome to Florence!

How to pick the best train from Rome to Florence - Our tip

After testing multiple options and doing a dozen rides ourselves, here’s a quick guide based on speed, comfort, and overall experience.

High-speed trains, both Trenitalia and Italo, are the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Rome and Florence—taking about 1.5 hours.

It’s easy to spot Frecciarossa trains at the platform — both in Rome and Florence

Main operators:

Trenitalia (Frecciarossa)

• Most frequent departures (roughly every 15–30 min during peak times)
• Route: Roma Termini → Firenze Santa Maria Novella
• Classes from Standard to Executive
• Wi-Fi, power outlets, clean bathrooms, good luggage space

Italo (private Italian train company)

• Modern trains with slightly fewer departures
• Classes from Smart to Club Executive
• Comfortable seats, quiet cabins, free Wi-Fi
• Often cheaper if booked early

Both are fast, comfortable, and reliable. Choose Trenitalia for frequency or Italo for price deals and modern feel.

Best Florence Combo Tickets & Passes 👇

Why you shouldn’t take regional trains from Rome to Florence

Regional trains from Rome to Florence cost about €13, but take up to 4 hours, stop often, and aren’t very comfortable with luggage.

If you value time and comfort, the extra €20–€30 for a high-speed train is usually worth it.

👉 Did you know that you can easily take a train from Florence to Pisa, Lucca, Siena, or Arezzo? You can also travel further to Bologna, Milan, or Venice. Book your train tickets in just a few clicks!

Tourists relax on Florence’s Piazza della Signoria

Stepping into the courtyard of Palazzo Vecchio in Florence is completely free

Train tickets from Rome to Florence - Everything you need to know

We've travelled from Rome to Florence by train many times and know what to expect.

From finding the best ticket prices to choosing the right train, we've learned the easiest ways to book this popular route.

Tips for booking Rome to Florence train tickets

• Book early: Buy your tickets 3–4 months in advance if you know your travel dates. This is one of Italy's busiest train routes, and cheaper fares sell out quickly.
• Compare prices: We recommend using Trainline to compare all available trains, departure times, and fares in one place.
• Use digital tickets: Your ticket is sent directly to your email or the Trainline app. Simply show the QR code to the conductor when asked.

Rome to Florence train tickets prices

Ticket prices vary depending on the train operator, travel date, and how far in advance you book.

• 💶 Economy fares: From €20–€40+ when booked early.
• 🔄 Flexible tickets: Cost more but allow you to change your travel plans.
• ⏰ Last-minute tickets: Usually the most expensive, especially during weekends and holidays.
• 📅 Prices change: Fares increase as cheaper tickets sell out, so booking early often saves money.

👉 Read our complete guide to Rome to Florence train tickets!

We enjoyed the beautiful Italian countryside on our train journey from Rome to Florence—made even better by the free snacks on board

Santa Maria Novella Station in Florence has everything you need for a smooth and pleasant train journey—shops, cafés, and easy connections

Insider tips for a smooth Rome to Florence train ride:

• Book early for the best prices
  Train tickets are usually cheapest 2–3 months in advance, especially for business or premium class.
  
  
• Use fast trains
  We usually go with Frecciarossa by Trenitalia for comfort and reliability (Italo also offers fast trains!)
  
  
• Have more comfort
  For more comfort book premium or business classes (you'll get snacks and drinks and more space to spread out)
  
  
• Give yourself some flexibility
  If you can, book a ticket with some flexibility — either one that allows changes, or plan your day with enough buffer time in case of a delay or cancellation. Italy is beautiful, and a little extra time in Rome or Florence is never a bad thing!
  
  
• Arrive early to Termini
  Roma Termini is a busy hub, and it can take a few minutes to find your platform, especially if it’s your first time. Arriving 20–30 minutes early gives you time to check the departure board, grab a snack, and not feel rushed.
  
  
• Stay near Termini
  If you're overnighting in Rome, stay close to the station for a stress-free departure (we recommend Sophie Terrace Hotel).
  
  
• Watch the departure boards
  Platforms are typically announced 10–15 minutes before departure, so keep checking the screens.
  
  
• Don’t forget your ticket validation
  If you’re not on a high-speed train with a reserved seat, make sure to validate your paper ticket before boarding.

You won't find a bridge like Ponte Vecchio in Florence anywhere else

The best way to explore Florence is on foot

Is there a direct train from FCO (Rome's Fiumicino Airport) to Florence?

A couple of Trenitalia high-speed trains run daily from Fiumicino Airport (FCO) directly to Florence.

They stop at Rome Termini, but you don’t need to get off or change trains.

To catch one, just follow the signs in the airport to the train station (same as for the Leonardo Express).

The trip takes about 2h15 and starts around €25—but direct trains are limited (2–3 per day).

For more options, take the Leonardo Express to Termini and transfer to a frequent high-speed train to Florence.

Best Train from Rome to Florence FAQs

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