How to find cheap train tickets
Train ticket prices in Italy are dynamic: they change based on demand, how far in advance you book, and the class. Here are the best strategies to save money.
Golden rule: book in advance
Frecce and Intercity tickets go on sale 120 days before departure. The lowest prices are found:
| Advance booking | Estimated saving |
|---|---|
| 60-120 days | Up to 70% |
| 30-60 days | Up to 50% |
| 7-30 days | Up to 30% |
| Last minute | Full price |
Tuesday morning is often the best time to search for deals: Trenitalia and Italo release new promotional fares at the start of the week.
Trenitalia fares
Super Economy (cheapest)
- Discount up to 70% off the Base price
- Non-refundable, non-changeable
- Limited seats per train
- Only available well in advance
Economy
- Discount up to 50%
- Changes with penalty (fare difference)
- Non-refundable
- Good price/flexibility compromise
Base
- Full price
- Free changes until before departure
- Refund with 20% deduction
Special offers
- Promo 2x1: two trips for the price of one (periodic)
- Frecce Young (under 30): 30% discount
- Frecce Senior (over 60): 30% discount
- Frecce Family: children free (2-15) with paying adult
- Regional offers: each region has special fares
Italo fares
Low Cost
- The lowest fare (from €9.90)
- Non-refundable, non-changeable
- Very limited seats
Economy
- Mid-range price
- Changes with penalty
- Non-refundable
Flex
- Higher price
- Free changes
- Refund with 20% deduction
Special offers
- Italo Family: children free (0-13)
- Under 30 / Over 60: dedicated fares
- XGo: flash deals at very low prices
Discount cards
CartaFRECCIA (Trenitalia)
- Free: earn points for free trips
- Silver (over 60): 30% off Frecce, 10% off Intercity
- Green (under 30): 30% off Frecce, 10% off Intercity
- Platinum (high spend): VIP lounge access, free upgrades
Italo Più
- Free: earn points for free trips
- Bonus points for advance purchases
- Partner deals (hotels, car rental)
Always compare: before purchasing, check both websites (Trenitalia and Italo). The same journey can cost very differently between the two operators.
Money-saving tips
1. Use the app
The Trenitalia and Italo apps often have exclusive offers not available on the website.
2. Be flexible with times
Trains at 6:00-7:00 and after 20:00 cost less than those at 8:00-9:00 and 17:00-19:00.
3. Consider regional trains
For routes under 200 km, regional trains cost much less than high-speed (and the time difference may be only 30-40 minutes).
4. Split the journey
Sometimes two separate tickets (e.g. Rome-Bologna + Bologna-Milan) cost less than one direct ticket.
5. Look for flash sales
Follow Trenitalia and Italo on social media for flash offers.
6. Travel overnight
The Intercity Notte with a seat starts from ~€29 for very long routes. See our night trains guide.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to buy?
60-90 days before departure for Super Economy fares. Regional train prices are fixed.
Do children pay for tickets?
- Trenitalia: free under 4, 50% discount 4-12, free 0-15 with Family Offer
- Italo: free under 4, free 0-13 with Family Offer
Can I use CartaFRECCIA points on Italo (or vice versa)?
No, loyalty programmes are separate and not interchangeable.
Is there an unlimited pass for Italy?
Yes, the InterRail Italy Pass allows unlimited travel for 3-8 days (from ~€130). Useful for tourists visiting multiple cities.