Best Train From Rome to Florence: Which Option Is Right for You?

Wondering what the best train from Rome to Florence is?

We’ve made this trip many times, and each time we chose the Frecciarossa high-speed train. In our opinion, it’s simply the best option, and on this page you’ll find out why. 👉 Get digital train tickets in just a few clicks!

Continue reading to discover the information we gathered from our train journeys.

• How long is the train ride from Rome to Florence
• How often do trains run from Rome to Florence in 2026
• How to pick the best train on this route
• How to get cheap train tickets from Rome to Florence
• Step-by-step guide for booking train tickets online
• Our review of the Frecciarossa train from Rome to Florence

We usually take Frecciarossa trains when traveling from Rome to Florence, and each time we love the fast and comfortable ride!

How long is the train ride from Rome to Florence?

The train from Rome to Florence takes about 1.5 hours on high-speed services (both Trenitalia Frecciarossa and Italo).

Slower trains can take up to 4 hours, but most travellers choose the fast option for convenience.

It’s so quick and easy that it works well even for a Rome to Florence day trip, letting you explore the city and return to Rome the same evening.

Wondering how often trains run from Rome to Florence in 2026?

You’re in luck—it’s one of Italy’s busiest routes.

High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo run from around 6 AM to 10 PM, with departures every 15–30 minutes during peak times. Super easy to fit into any travel schedule!

Be aware! Strikes in train travel in Italy happens regularly, but they are always preannounced, at least one week ahead.

How to pick the best train from Rome to Florence - Our tip

After testing multiple options and doing a dozen rides ourselves, here’s a quick guide based on speed, comfort, and overall experience.

High-speed trains are the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Rome and Florence—taking about 1.5 hours.

It’s easy to spot Frecciarossa trains at the platform — both in Rome and Florence

Main operators:

Trenitalia (Frecciarossa)

• Most frequent departures (roughly every 15–30 min during peak times)
• Route: Roma Termini → Firenze Santa Maria Novella
• Classes from Standard to Executive
• Wi-Fi, power outlets, clean bathrooms, good luggage space

Italo (private Italian train company)

• Modern trains with slightly fewer departures
• Classes from Smart to Club Executive
• Comfortable seats, quiet cabins, free Wi-Fi
• Often cheaper if booked early

Both are fast, comfortable, and reliable. Choose Trenitalia for frequency or Italo for price deals and modern feel.

Why you shouldn’t take regional trains from Rome to Florence

Regional trains from Rome to Florence cost about €13, but take up to 4 hours, stop often, and aren’t very comfortable with luggage.

If you value time and comfort, the extra €20–€30 for a high-speed train is usually worth it.

Tourists relax on Florence’s Piazza della Signoria

Stepping into the courtyard of Palazzo Vecchio in Florence is completely free

Train tickets from Rome to Florence - Everything you need to know

We’ve taken the train from Rome to Florence more times than we can count—across every season—so we’ve learned a thing or two about what tickets cost, what’s worth paying for, and how to get the best train prices.

This route is one of the most popular in Italy, it’s easy to see why—fast, scenic, and super convenient), which means prices can vary quite a bit.

The cost of train tickets from Rome to Florence depends on several factors:

• how early you book
• which train company you choose, and 
• what class of service you go for.

A little planning can go a long way in saving you time and money.

We managed to snag Frecciarossa business class seats for only 30 euros a couple of times — such a great deal for a comfy ride!

How to get cheap train tickets from Rome to Florence?

• Book early—ideally 2–3 months ahead
  We’ve scored fares as low as €19–€25, especially in the off-season (November to mid-March). Wait too long—like during summer or weekends—and prices can jump fast. We've paid €50–€60 before just for booking late.
• Travel mid-week & avoid peak commuter hours
  Avoid Friday afternoons and Monday mornings! You’ll not only save money but also enjoy a more relaxed, less crowded ride.
  

Where to buy Rome to Florence train tickets?

As we mentioned before, we love to book our train tickets in Italy through Trainline - it's super easy and convenient.

Here’s a clear step-by-step guide for booking train tickets on Trainline:

1. Visit Trainline - Select your travel dates and input departure and arrival cities

Train stations are listed in Italian—so for Rome to Florence, enter Roma Termini as departure and Firenze Santa Maria Novella as destination.

2. Compare available trains on desired date/time

Once the results appear, choose the train and seats that suit you. Both Trenitalia (Frecciarossa) and Italo operate high-speed trains between Rome and Florence, offering several classes from Standard to Business.

3. Choose the seats and extras

On the next step, you can choose your seat (2 €). You can browse each train carriage to pick a solo or double seat, window or aisle. This step is optional — if you skip it, the system will assign you available seats automatically.

4. Add passenger details & Choose trip cover

Next, enter your passenger details and email. You can also add trip cover for €1.98, which provides a full refund if you miss or cancel your train and covers theft or loss of personal belongings up to €100.

5. Complete payment

Finally, pay by credit card or PayPal. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your e-tickets, which you can show on your phone when requested.

Travel between Rome and Florence by Frecciarossa train: A Firsthand review

1. Boarding the train at Termini Station in Rome

Staying at 🛏️ Sophie Terrace Hotel makes it easy to reach Termini Station—it’s just a 5-minute walk. Once we travelled very early, and the hotel staff called their trusted taxi for us.

When we stay further from Termini, for example in Trastevere, Prati or Centro Storico, we usually grab a taxi to Termini. Taking a metro is another good option (lines A and B pass through Termini).

Rome’s Termini Station can be a little hectic, especially during busy hours, so it’s good to get there at least 30 minutes early. There are plenty of places to grab a snack or coffee if you have time to spare.

2. Riding the Frecciarossa train - onboard experience

We enjoyed the beautiful Italian countryside on our train journey from Rome to Florence—made even better by the free snacks on board

As we zipped through the Tuscan countryside, we were surprised how smooth and quiet the ride was. We passed by rolling hills, old stone farmhouses, and tiny towns.

Frecciarossa, meaning ‘Red Arrow,’ proves it’s more than just a name with its impressive speed.

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.

3. Arriving in Florence: First impressions and tips

Santa Maria Novella Station in Florence has everything you need for a smooth and pleasant train journey—shops, cafés, and easy connections

Trains from Rome to Florence arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella station (Stazione di Santa Maria Novella), the city’s main train hub—and trust us, it's as central as it gets.

The first time we arrived, we were honestly surprised by how close everything was. You step out and you're basically already in the city - just a 10-minute 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.

If you're heading to Basilica di San Lorenzo, it’s only a 4–5 minute walk via Via del Giglio from the station—super easy, even with luggage.

The Santa Maria Novella train station itself is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. Signs are posted in both Italian and English, and we’ve never had trouble figuring out where to go.

There’s a taxi stand just outside the station (take the left exit). It’s a good option if you’d prefer to avoid the crowds and narrow streets. If your Florence accommodation is nearby and your luggage is light, walking is an easy and pleasant choice.

Just note that taxis are fairly expensive—around €10 to €15 for a 4–5 minute ride.

👍 We found a little gem near SMN station — 🛏️ Globus Urban Hotel. Cosy, super friendly staff, and just a short walk to the main sights.

Insider tips for a smooth Rome to Florence train ride:

• Book early for the best prices
  Train tickets are usually cheapest 2–3 months in advance, especially for business or premium class.
  
  
• Use fast trains
  We usually go with Frecciarossa by Trenitalia for comfort and reliability
  
  
• Have more comfort
  For more comfort book premium or business classes (you'll get snacks and drinks and more space to spread out)
  
  
• Give yourself some flexibility
  If you can, book a ticket with some flexibility — either one that allows changes, or plan your day with enough buffer time in case of a delay or cancellation. Italy is beautiful, and a little extra time in Rome or Florence is never a bad thing!
  
  
• Arrive early to Termini
  Roma Termini is a busy hub, and it can take a few minutes to find your platform, especially if it’s your first time. Arriving 20–30 minutes early gives you time to check the departure board, grab a snack, and not feel rushed.
  
  
• Watch the departure boards
  Platforms are typically announced 10–15 minutes before departure, so keep checking the screens.
  
  
• Stay near Termini
  If you're overnighting in Rome, stay close to the station for a stress-free departure (we recommend Sophie Terrace Hotel).
  
  
• Don’t forget your ticket validation
  If you’re not on a high-speed train with a reserved seat, make sure to validate your paper ticket before boarding.
  
  

You won't find a bridge like Ponte Vecchio in Florence anywhere else

The best way to explore Florence is on foot

Is there a direct train from FCO (Rome's Fiumicino Airport) to Florence?

A couple of Trenitalia high-speed trains run daily from Fiumicino Airport (FCO) directly to Florence. They stop at Rome Termini, but you don’t need to get off or change trains.

To catch one, just follow the signs in the airport to the train station (same as for the Leonardo Express).

The trip takes about 2h15 and starts around €25—but direct trains are limited (2–3 per day).

For more options, take the Leonardo Express to Termini and transfer to a frequent high-speed train to Florence.

Rome to Florence Train – Our Final Thoughts

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.

Best Train from Rome to Florence - FAQs

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