The Rome to Florence Train - Our Smooth Ride in 2025

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Over the last few years, we’ve took a Rome to Florence train more times than we can count - and every time, it’s been the easiest and most stress-free way to make the journey.

Whether it was a quick weekend escape or part of a longer Italy trip, hopping on a train from Rome to Florence has never let us down. We’d heard people rave about Italian trains, especially the high-speed ones, but it wasn’t until we were zipping through the Tuscan countryside with a coffee in hand that we really got it.

We booked Rome to Florence train tickets on the Frecciarossa, which is Trenitalia’s fastest train (along Italo), and it was absolutely the right choice. The journey only took 1.5 hours, and we were surprised by how comfortable everything was.

Even in standard class, the seats were roomy, the train was clean and modern, and the ride itself was super quiet. There’s also free Wi-Fi onboard, which was great for browsing places to eat in Florence. For more comfort book premium or business classes (you'll get snacks and drinks and more space to spread out). 👍 Our Most Loved Activities in Florence!

We usually take Frecciarossa trains when travelling from Rome to Florence and each time we love it!We usually take Frecciarossa trains when travelling from Rome to Florence and each time we love it!

How much are Rome to Florence train tickets? Our experience across the seasons!

As someone who’s made the Rome to Florence train journey more times than we can count—spring, summer, autumn, winter—you get a good sense of the pricing patterns, what’s worth it, and what to avoid.

First off, the Rome to Florence route is incredibly popular (and for good reason—it’s fast, scenic, and super convenient), so prices can vary depending on how early you book and the type of train you take.

We usually stick with the high-speed Frecciarossa trains with Trenitalia, which get you there in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Rome to Florence train tickets with them, if you plan ahead, can be as low as €19–€25.

That’s usually what we pay when we book a couple of months in advance, especially during the off-season (late winter and early spring are the sweet spot for deals).

But if you book last minute or travel during a peak holiday (summer or Christmas time especially), prices shoot up quickly. We’ve paid as much as €50–€60 when we weren't paying attention or had to travel spontaneously. Still not outrageous, but definitely more than necessary.

A few times, we managed to snag Frecciarossa business class tickets for just €30—such an amazing deal!A few times, we managed to snag Frecciarossa business class tickets for just €30—such an amazing deal!

We haven’t tried Italo trains from Rome to Florence yet, even though people seem to love it. It’s another high-speed option, often priced similarly, sometimes even cheaper. It’s on our list for the next trip—mostly out of curiosity and to compare comfort and service. Italo offers 4 seat classes:  Smart, Comfort, Prima and Club Executive.

Regional trains from Rome to Florence are cheaper—sometimes as low as €13—but honestly, we don’t recommend them. They can take up to 4 hours, they’re slower, make a bunch of stops, and aren’t the most comfortable ride.

High-speed trains on Rome to Florence route are absolutely worth the extra euros—fast, smooth, and way more pleasant all around.

👍 Pro tip: traveling mid-week and outside of commuter hours (avoid Friday afternoons and Monday mornings) almost always gets you a better price and a less crowded train 

All in all, Rome to Florence by train is one of those routes that’s super easy, reasonably priced, and well worth doing again and again—no matter the season.

Our Favorite Way to Buy Rome to Florence Train Tickets!

After trying a few different methods over the years, we’ve settled on what we think is the easiest and most reliable: Trainline. It lets you see all the available trains in one place—Frecciarossa, Italo, even regional options—so you can compare prices and departure times without hopping between different websites.

Booking is a breeze, and once you’ve paid, your ticket shows up right away in your email or in the Trainline app. No need to print anything—just have it ready on your phone and show it to the train staff if they ask. Simple, fast, and stress-free.

👍 Pro tip: book early, especially in summer, tickets can sell out. Booking online not only saves time but sometimes gets you cheaper fares. Use Trainline platform - everything is in English and simplified!


Trenitalia Rome to Florence train schedule: What you need to know

What we love about Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa fast trains is their frequent service between Roma Termini and Firenze Santa Maria Novella. We typically opt for early evening departures, since we usually arrive in Rome in the afternoon and need time to reach Termini (we take the Leonardo Express from the airport).

The good news is that Rome to Florence trains start running as early as 6am and continue until around 9pm, with departures every 15 to 30 minutes during peak hours.

👉  Check the latest Trenitalia Rome to Florence timetable!

From where do Rome to Florence train departs?

Trains from Rome to Florence leave from Roma Termini Station, conveniently located near the Colosseum and Via Nazionale. When we stay at Sophie Terrace Hotel, walking to Termini is our preferred option, but from Eccelso Hotel in the Prati area, we typically grab a taxi. The metro is another good choice, with both lines A and B available.

Rome’s Termini Station can be a little hectic, especially during busy hours, so it’s good to get there at least 20-30 minutes early. There are plenty of places to grab a snack or coffee if you have time to spare. The platforms (binario) aren’t announced super early, so keep an eye on the departure board. Once your train shows up, it’s all pretty straightforward - just find your carriage (carrozza) number and hop on. To access the platform, you'll need to scan the ticket or show to the train station staff. 

👉 If your tickets says "Carrozza 5, Posto 12A", that means Carriage 5, Seat 12A.

What happens if your Rome to Florence train gets cancelled?

Once, when we were catching a Rome to Florence train, it was cancelled while we were waiting at Termini. We went to the Trenitalia office and easily exchanged the ticket for a later train without any hassle. Don’t be discouraged by the lines in front of the ticket office – they move quickly. Plus, the staff inside are polite and speak English well.

If your Rome to Florence train is cancelled, just head to the Trenitalia ticket office for a new one.If your Rome to Florence train is cancelled, just head to the Trenitalia ticket office for a new one.

Our take on the Frecciarossa train journey from Rome to Florence...

As we zipped through the Italian countryside, we were surprised how smooth and quiet the ride was. We passed by rolling hills, old stone farmhouses, and tiny towns I now want to go back and explore. The train hit speeds of 300 km/h, but you barely feel it. We definitely recommend grabbing a window seat if you can - it’s worth it for the views alone.

We sometimes enjoy booking a seat in the "silent carriage" - it’s ideal for reading, getting some work done, or just travelling in peace without overhearing phone calls or conversations.

The train pulled into Firenze Santa Maria Novella station, right in the heart of Florence, just a short walk from the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.

Where do trains from Rome to Florence arrive?

The trains from Rome to Florence arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station (Stazione di Santa Maria Novella). This station places you right in the heart of Florence, just a short walk from the Duomo (head down Via dei Banchi to reach it).

Continue along Via del Calzaiuoli (we love stopping here at Venchi for a scoop of creamy gelato!), and you'll arrive at the stunning Piazza della Signoria. Just a few steps away is the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most visited museums in the world.

The station itself is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. Even when it’s busy, it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Everything’s well signposted (in English too), so we never had trouble figuring out where to go. There are plenty of ticket machines, a few helpful info desks, and a bunch of shops and cafés if you need a quick espresso or snack.

If you need a ride, there’s a taxi stand right outside (use left exit to reach it), and local buses are easy to catch too. But honestly, most of the time we just walked. Florence is that kind of city - small enough to explore on foot, but packed with things to see.


A couple of quick tips from our visits:

  • Keep your ticket with you—they sometimes check it when you exit the platform.
  • Like any busy station, watch your stuff, especially around the entrances.
  • If you’re catching a train back to Rome or heading somewhere else, give yourself a bit of extra time. It can get crowded during peak hours.

All in all, Santa Maria Novella has made arriving in Florence super easy for us every single time. It's one of those places that just works well, and it always feels like the perfect first step into the magic of Florence.

Book your Florence museum and attraction tickets in advance to skip the lines and save time!Book your Florence museum and attraction tickets in advance to skip the lines and save time!

Our thoughts on Firenze Santa Maria Novella...

So, we’ve spent a good bit of time at Firenze Santa Maria Novella, and we’ve got a few thoughts to share. It’s not just a train station; it’s kind of an experience in itself. The mix of history, bustle, and that perfect pre-train energy makes it feel unique.

The first time we arrived, we were surprised by how central it is. You step out and you're basically already in the city - just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. We reach the Basilica di San Lorenzo, taking Via del Giglio from Piazza di Santa Maria Novella in only 4-5 minutes.

That alone makes the whole train experience feel worth it. No long taxi rides or confusing transfers—just grab your bags and start exploring.

Walking from Santa Maria Novella Station to the Basilica di San Lorenzo is simple.Walking from Santa Maria Novella Station to the Basilica di San Lorenzo is simple.

Every time we’re catching a train from Florence, we make a point to stop at La Feltrinelli bookstore in the station. It’s become a little ritual — a quiet moment before the journey. When we have extra time, we like to browse the shops beneath the train station (especially the shoe stores!).

Wandering through the shelves, flipping through books we didn’t plan to find, there’s a calmness in the midst of travel buzz. And of course, there's coffee. Whether it's an espresso, a croissant, or a quick sandwich, it's the perfect way to slow down before boarding.

Just a simple pause — pages, coffee, and the feeling that something new is about to begin.

We found a little gem not far from SMN train station!

For staying very central in Florence, choose the Globus Urban Hotel (Via S. Antonino 38/R.), situated just around the corner from Piazza del Duomo. We stayed here and loved the comfort and amazing staff. Walking from SMN train station to here will take around 7-8 minutes.

Final Thoughts: Why the Rome to Florence train should be your choice

Honestly, taking the Trenitalia train from Rome to Florence was one of the easiest parts of our Italian trip - and one of the most relaxing. No airport stress, no traffic, just a smooth glide through beautiful Italian landscapes. If you're planning your itinerary, we 100% recommend making this train journey part of it. We’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Rome to Florence train FAQs

How long does the train ride from Rome to Florence take?

The journey typically takes about 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the type of train (Frecciarossa, Frecciabianca, or Regionale).

What is the best time to travel from Rome to Florence by train?

If you're looking for scenic views, we recommend traveling during the day. Avoid peak rush hours, typically between 7am - 9am and 5pm - 7pm, for a more relaxed experience.

Do I need to book my Rome to Florence train tickets in advance?

Yes, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure the best fares and ensure you get a seat.

How much do Rome to Florence train tickets cost?

Ticket prices typically range from €20 to €50, depending on the type of train, class, and how early you book. First-class tickets are more expensive, but business and second-class options are affordable and comfortable.

Can I bring luggage on the Rome to Florence train?

Yes, you can bring luggage on the train. There are designated areas for large bags and overhead racks for smaller items. Just make sure it’s within the train's size limits.

What amenities are available on the train from Rome to Florence?

On high-speed trains like Frecciarossa, you'll find Wi-Fi, power outlets, air conditioning, and a food cart offering snacks and beverages. First-class passengers often have access to extra amenities like a quieter environment and complimentary refreshments.

Do trains from Rome to Florence run every day?

Yes, there are multiple trains running from Rome to Florence every day, so you can choose the time that fits your schedule.

Where do the Rome to Florence trains depart from and arrive at?

Trains depart from Roma Termini station and arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella station, both major transport hubs in their respective cities.

Is the Rome to Florence train ride scenic?

Yes, the journey offers beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside, especially when traveling during the day. It’s one of the most scenic train routes in Italy!

Can I choose my seat on the Rome to Florence train?

Yes, when you book your tickets, you can select your preferred seat. For high-speed trains like Frecciarossa, you can even choose from standard or business class seating.

Are there discounts available for Rome to Florence train tickets?

Yes, you can find discounts for certain ages (youth or senior tickets), group bookings, and special offers. It's worth checking for deals when booking.

How early should I arrive at the train station before my Rome to Florence train departs?

It’s recommended to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your train’s departure time to find your platform and get settled.

Can I take a direct train from Rome to Florence?

Yes, most trains between Rome and Florence are direct, especially the high-speed Frecciarossa and Frecciabianca trains.

What happens if I miss my train from Rome to Florence?

If you miss your train, you may be able to change your ticket for another train, depending on the type of ticket you purchased (flexible tickets allow this). However, non-refundable tickets typically require you to buy a new one.

Are there food and drink options on the Rome to Florence train?

Yes, food and drinks are available for purchase on the train, especially on high-speed trains like Frecciarossa. You can also bring your own snacks for the journey.

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