I’ve always loved traveling by train, so when I decided to explore Italy, it was clear that rail travel would be my go-to. After some research, I discovered two high-speed train operators in Italy: Trenitalia and Italo.
Trenitalia has a vast network throughout the country, but I found Italo to be cheaper for my travel dates to Venice, so I decided to give it a try.
Italo Train at Roma Termini Station
Why I Chose Italo Over Trenitalia
Italo is a privately-owned high-speed train service that covers most of the major cities in Italy. Although Trenitalia offers a broader network, I found similar services between both operators.
Since Italo had better pricing when I booked around three weeks in advance through their website, I went with Italo Prima Class, which offers a little extra comfort and complimentary snacks.
Arrival at Roma Termini
I arrived at Roma Termini Station about three hours before my departure at 15:55. It’s not just any train station—it’s a massive, bustling hub for both tourists and locals, filled with energy.
To pass the time, I explored the station and was pleasantly surprised by its variety of shops and restaurants. You’ll find luxury Italian brands like Gucci, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana, along with bookstores, pharmacies, and cozy eateries.
I enjoyed a delicious lunch and a coffee to fuel up before my journey on the Rome to Venice train.
Italo Ticketing Counter – Rome Termini station
Boarding the Italo Train
The boarding process was seamless and well-organized. Italo trains have a reputation for being efficient, and this was evident from the moment I stepped on board.
The Wi-Fi worked great throughout the journey, which was a bonus for staying connected. I was also impressed by the comfortable seating and good legroom, making the 3-hour journey feel relaxed and enjoyable.
Italo Prima Class View
My Prima Class Experience
Choosing Prima Class turned out to be a good decision. Along with the extra comfort, I was treated to complimentary snacks—a nice perk for the journey.
While the train didn’t have a restaurant car, vending machines onboard offered a selection of drinks and snacks, which was convenient.
If you’re considering how to travel from Rome to Venice by train, Prima Class is an excellent option for comfort and amenities.
Speed and Smooth Sailing: Hitting 289 km/h
One of the things I loved most was how fast the train zipped through the Italian countryside. The speed peaked at around 289 km/h, yet the ride was smooth and quiet, allowing me to relax and enjoy the changing landscapes outside the window.
Riding Over Water into Venice
The most magical part of the journey was towards the end, between Venice Mestre and Venice Santa Lucia stations. The view was breathtaking—it felt like the Rome to Venice train was gliding over water, as the tracks are surrounded by the lagoon.
It was drizzling lightly when we arrived at Santa Lucia, adding to the serene atmosphere. I couldn’t wait to start exploring Venice, especially since my hotel was right near the Santa Lucia station.
On-Time Arrival at Venice Santa Lucia
True to Italian efficiency, the train arrived on time at Venice Santa Lucia. Stepping off the train into this picturesque city felt like entering another world.
The location of the station is perfect, giving you a front-row view of Venice’s iconic canals right as you step outside.
View outside St Lucia Railway Station in Venice
How Italo Compares to Other Travel Options
In hindsight, taking the train was a great choice. It saved me the hassle of airport security and provided a more scenic and relaxing journey than a flight would have.
Compared to buses or rental cars, travel by train in Italy was faster, more comfortable, and stress-free. The bonus of traveling city center to city center also made things incredibly convenient.
Tips for Traveling on Italo Trains
- Book tickets in advance: I booked my tickets 3 weeks ahead and snagged a great deal.
- Travel light: It makes hopping on and off trains much easier.
- Bring snacks if needed: While Prima Class includes snacks, it’s always nice to have extras, especially for longer journeys.
- Explore the station: Roma Termini is a destination in itself with plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy before departure.
Snacks served at Italo Prima Class
Final Thoughts
My experience on the Italo train from Rome to Venice was everything I hoped for—fast, comfortable, and scenic.
From the smooth boarding process at Roma Termini to the beautiful views of Venice’s lagoon, every part of the journey was enjoyable. Traveling by train allowed me to sit back, relax, and watch the Italian countryside roll by at 289 km/h.
If you’re planning to travel through Italy, Italo is a fantastic option, especially if you book in advance and want a convenient, eco-friendly way to explore the country. I highly recommend it!