Means of Transport

Rail Travel

The Italian rail system is operated by TRENITALIA. The rail network is well developed and widespread, especially between major urban centres and tourist areas. The fastest trains operate on the networks between the major cities while the regional trains usually stop at all stations. You will find that rail travel in Italy is cheap and efficient. Information offices are available at stations throughout Italy, with details regarding National and European destinations. Click the heading for more information about Italian Rail Travel.

Bus Travel

There is a fairly extensive network of bus services in Italy provided by a number of private companies. These bus services vary from small local services connecting rural communities to luxury express services between big cities.

Ferries and Hydrofoils

There are many services linking the islands by sea to the mainland. The main links are by car ferries and hydrofoils. In addition, ships from all the countries around the Mediterranean are moored in the well-equipped Italian ports. The main Italian ports for embarking on the Islands of Sicily and Sardinia are Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Fiumicino, Naples and Villa San Giovanni.

Taxi

Taxi service is readily available throughout the country. Meters are compulsory and fares are displayed.

IT IS STRONGLY ADVISED TO USE ONLY OFFICIAL TAXIS WHICH ARE EASILY IDENTIFIABLE. IGNORE OFFERS FROM DRIVERS OF PRIVATE CARS WHO OFTEN LOITER AROUND AIRPORTS AND RAILWAY STATIONS.

Extra charges: Night service supplement between 10 pm and 6 am. Sunday and holiday supplement + luggage (per item).
For taxi trips outside the city boundaries, fares will be based on distance.

Motorways and Roads

Italians drive on the right and overtake on the left. The roads in Italy are quite good and Italy has a fine network of motorways (Autostrade). Although the motorway network is quite extensive, there is also a good network of state roads to get you around. These state roads (strade statali) are often just as good. As a tourist, you may find that avoiding motorways is a good idea. The provincial roads (strade provinciali) will bring you into the Italian countryside. Click the heading for more information about Italian Roads.
Copyright © All rights reserved. Italian National Tourist Board - Aus & NZ