Taking your bike on the train in Italy
Travelling by train with a bicycle is possible, but rules vary by train type and operator. Here's everything you need to know.
General rules
Folding bikes
- Always free on all trains
- Must be closed in a bag
- Treated as hand luggage
- No reservation needed
Non-folding bikes
Rules vary by train type:
Trenitalia
Regional trains
- Bike space available on most trains
- Price: bike supplement of €3.50 (daily)
- Free: with regional pass + annual bike supplement (~€50)
- Bike symbol on the dedicated carriage
- Limit: depends on the train (usually 3-6 bikes per carriage)
Peak hours: during 7:00-9:00 and 17:00-19:00 bike transport may be prohibited on some busy lines. Check with your region.
Intercity
- Bike supplement: €3.50
- Bike space reservation is mandatory: buy it together with your ticket (or add it later via "Modify ticket")
- Bike spaces in a dedicated carriage (usually carriage 3, with 6 spaces and charging points for e-bikes)
- Spaces are limited: check that your specific train offers the bike service
Frecciarossa / Frecciargento / Frecciabianca
- Non-folding bikes not allowed
- Only folding bikes in a bag
Intercity Notte
- Bike supplement: €3.50
- Limited space, reservation required
EuroCity / EuroNight
- Reservable bike space is also available on international trains (EuroCity, EuroNight)
- Reservation required; the supplement may vary by route
Italo
- Non-folding bikes not allowed
- Only folding bikes in a bag (max 80x110x40 cm)
Trenord (Lombardy)
- Bike supplement: €2 (single) or monthly bike pass
- Bike space on all regional trains
- Prohibited during peak hours on some suburban lines
Practical tips
Before departing
- Check bike space on the specific train (Trenitalia app, "Train info" section)
- Buy the supplement online or at the station
- Arrive early to position your bike before spaces fill up
- Bring elastic straps to secure the bike to hooks
At the station
- Use lifts to reach platforms (not escalators with a bike)
- Underpasses may not have ramps: plan your route
- Some stations have velostazioni (secure bike parking)
On the train
- Position the bike in dedicated spaces (bike symbol)
- Don't block doors or corridors
- Secure the bike with straps if available
- Stay near the bike at intermediate stops
Alternatives: If your train doesn't allow bikes, consider a bike shipping service (from ~€20) or rent a bike at your destination.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take an electric bike on the train?
Yes, e-bikes follow the same rules as regular bikes. Watch the weight: some e-bikes are heavy and lifting them onto high trains can be difficult.
Do I need a reservation for my bike?
On regional trains, no (first come, first served). On Intercity and Intercity Notte the bike space reservation is mandatory and must be made when you buy your ticket.
Can I take my bike from Milan to Ostuni?
Yes. The Milan-Ostuni route is served by Intercity (and Intercity Notte) trains, which offer a reservable bike space with a €3.50 supplement: the reservation is mandatory and must be made at booking, checking that your specific train has bike spaces. On Frecce trains, bikes are only allowed if folded and packed in a bag. Check timetables and delays for your train on the train search page.
What about electric scooters?
Folding electric scooters are allowed on all trains as hand luggage (folded and in compact position).
Can I bring a bike trailer on the train?
Yes, bike trailers are allowed disassembled and packed as special luggage. Maximum dimensions vary by operator.
