Travel

Train Connections: How to Plan Transfers

Guide to train connections in Italy. Minimum transfer times, what to do if you miss your connection, passenger rights and practical tips.

Last updated: March 2026

What is a train connection?

A connection is when you need to change trains during your journey to reach your destination. For example: Rome -> Bologna (Frecciarossa) -> Venice (Frecciargento).

Recommended minimum connection times

The time needed to change trains depends on the station:

Large stations (Roma Termini, Milano Centrale)

  • Minimum recommended:: 15-20 minutes
  • Ideal:: 25-30 minutes
  • Stations are very large and platforms can be far apart

Medium stations (Bologna, Firenze SMN)

  • Minimum recommended:: 10-15 minutes
  • Ideal:: 20 minutes

Small stations

  • Minimum recommended:: 5-10 minutes
  • Platforms are close and easily reachable

What to do if your first train is delayed?

If you risk missing your connection due to a delay:

1. Monitor the delay on Treniamo in real-time

2. Inform staff on the train about your connection

3. Check alternatives - there may be a later train

Rights if you miss a connection due to delay

If you have a single ticket (with connection included) and miss your connection due to the first train's delay:

  • You have the right: to take the next train at no additional cost
  • You can request a refund: if the total delay exceeds 60 minutes
  • Keep: the original ticket as proof

Check connection reliability

On Treniamo you can see the historical reliability of connections at each station. On the station page you'll find the "Connection Reliability" section with success rates based on the last 30 days of data.

See main stations