The Best Way to Travel between Cities in Italy

If you have taken a long flight to Italy you will want to see as much of the country as possible while you are there. While most visitors try to include the ‘big three’ of Rome, Venice and Florence, there is much more to discover such as the beautiful hill towns of Tuscany, the tranquil Umbrian countryside and the stunning landscape of the Amalfi Coast. 

There are several options for getting around Italy which vary in reliability, comfort, speed and cost.

So to make the most of your Italy trip, here are the pros and cons of getting around by train, rental car or private transfer:

TAKING THE TRAIN

PROS

• The rail network in Italy is extensive and inexpensive
• Trains are a fast, direct way of traveling to larger cities
• Stations are usually located in the centre of town

CONS

• Navigating the train station and locating the correct train can be confusing
• Italian rail strikes occur frequently and sometimes at the last moment causing disruptions and delays
• Smaller towns and remote places are not accessible by train
• Trains can be cramped with limited space for luggage in high season
• Separate journeys are necessary to get to and from the station

RENTING A CAR

PROS

• Opportunity to break up your journey as you feel, stopping along the way

CONS

• Italian drivers can be more frantic than most visitors are used to
• Failing to understand Italian road signs and regulations can result in hefty fines
• Driving in the big cities is stressful and there is a lack of parking
• A lack of street name signs in cities make it very easy to get lost
• Separate journeys are necessary to pick-up and drop-off the rental car

BOOKING A PRIVATE TRANSFER

PROS

• Travel in style in cool, comfortable cars
• Perfect for larger groups who need to travel by minivan
• Door-to-to pick up and drop off wherever and whenever you need
• An experienced driver, used to Italian roads, at your disposal
• The possibility to set your own itinerary, visit smaller towns or stop for lunch at more remote places, seeing more of the country as you travel

CONS

• A little more expensive than other transport options

Miles & Miles organize private transfers throughout Italy with the possibility to customise your journey. Check out our website or contact us for more information.