Florence to Venice by train

Want to travel from Florence to Venice by train? Here’s what you need to know:

• Fastest option: High-speed trains (Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa or Italo) take about 2 hours.

• Distance: The distance from Florence to Venice is approximately 204 kilometers (127 miles).

• Cheapest option: Regional trains are slower (up to 6 hours) but more budget-friendly.

• Ticket prices: Start at $24 (€22) for early bookings.

• Stations: Most trains depart from Florence Santa Maria Novella and arrive at Venice Santa Lucia (island) or Mestre (mainland).

• Booking tips: Buy tickets online for discounts, or use self-service kiosks at stations.

Both Trenitalia and Italo offer comfortable, frequent services with multiple ticket options to suit your budget and flexibility needs. High-speed trains provide amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and refreshments. Regional trains are simpler but still a reliable choice for budget travelers. The train ride also offers beautiful views of the Italian countryside along the way.

Planning multiple trips in Italy? Consider a rail pass, but note that high-speed trains require reservations.

Don’t forget: Starting 2025, Venice day visitors must pay an entry fee of $5.45 (€5) if booked in advance. Overnight guests are exempt.

Florence to Venice with the High Speed Train Frecciarossa

Train Ticket Types and Classes

This section breaks down the various classes and fare rules available for train travel.

High-Speed Train Classes

Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa trains provide four class options: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. Each class includes features like air conditioning, power outlets, and Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy a café car and food cart service for refreshments during the journey.

Italo trains offer their own set of classes: Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive. These trains come with reclining leather seats for added comfort.

Regional Train Classes

Regional trains operate with two class options: Second Class and First Class. Discounts are available for children between the ages of 4 and 11. Keep in mind that regional train trips may involve transfers and typically take more time to complete.

Ticket Types and Change Rules

Ticket flexibility depends on the fare type. For high-speed trains, tickets are divided into three categories: Low CostEconomy, and Flex.

• Low Cost fares: Offer the cheapest prices but have limited options for changes.

• Economy fares: Provide moderate flexibility for adjustments.

• Flex fares: Allow the most freedom for modifications and cancellations.

Train Companies on This Route

Two main operators, Trenitalia and Italo, run services on the Florence–Venice route, offering different travel experiences.

Trains

Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains are the quickest option, covering the 160-mile journey in about 2 hours and 5 minutes. For those looking for a budget-friendly alternative, Trenitalia also offers regional trains. These slower trains can take up to 6 hours and often involve a transfer at Bologna. Unlike Trenitalia, Italo focuses exclusively on high-speed travel.

Italo Trains

Italo operates a fleet of modern high-speed trains designed for a comfortable ride. Their AGV 575 trains can reach speeds of up to 155 mph, while their EVO trains go even faster, hitting up to 186 mph.

Key features of Italo trains include:

Both Trenitalia and Italo make stops at Bologna Centrale, offering convenient connections. On average, about 52 trains run daily between Florence Santa Maria Novella and Venice Santa Lucia stations.

How to Buy Tickets

Train Company Websites

Both Trenitalia and Italo have online booking platforms that make purchasing tickets simple. Trenitalia’s site includes a multilingual interface, letting you:

• Compare fares, select seats, and add extra services

• Modify or manage your bookings

Italo’s website focuses on ease of use, offering:

• Real-time seat availability

• Digital ticket delivery

• Quick booking changes

• Loyalty program integration

Buying at Stations

You can also buy tickets directly at Florence Santa Maria Novella or any major train station in Italy. There are two main options for purchasing tickets:

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your train departs to avoid long lines. Self-service kiosks are usually quicker and offer the same ticket options as the ticket office. If you prefer digital solutions, both train operators also provide mobile apps.

Other Booking Options

Both Trenitalia and Italo offer mobile apps with features like:

• Digital tickets (no paper needed)

• Real-time updates on your journey

• Easy ticket storage on your phone

Trenitalia’s app includes a virtual customer service assistant, while Italo’s app is designed for quick and simple booking. Both apps work on iOS and Android devices.

Train Times and Routes

High-Speed Train Times

Trains from Florence Santa Maria Novella start running at 5:35 AM, with the last departure at 9:30 PM. Around 52 trains operate daily, though schedules may change on weekends and holidays when fewer services are available. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a slower pace, regional trains are another option.

Regional Train Times

Regional trains are a budget-friendly alternative but take much longer to complete the trip. These trains run less often than high-speed options, with journeys lasting up to 6 hours and often involving transfers. Many regional routes include a stop in Bologna, so planning connections is key.

Venice Station Options

When arriving in Venice from Florence, you’ll have two station options depending on your plans:

• Venezia Santa Lucia: Located on the island, this is the main train station in Venice and gives you direct access to the heart of the historic center. From here, you are just a short walk from must-visit landmarks like Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), as well as the famous canals and the Bridge of Sighs. Venice is a small city, making it easy to navigate on foot, but you can also use buses and water buses to get around. After arriving, you can spend your time exploring Venice’s unique attractions, enjoying its vibrant atmosphere, and discovering its rich cultural heritage.

• Venice Mestre: Found on the mainland, it’s ideal for connecting to other destinations or finding affordable accommodations.

Most trains stop at both stations, with Mestre being the first stop and Venezia Santa Lucia serving as the final destination.

Planning a Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip from Florence to Venice by train, careful planning can help you make the most of your time in this magical city. Given the florence to venice high speed train duration averages around 2 hours, you can comfortably reach Venice early in the morning and return the same day.

To maximize your visit, catch the earliest train from Florence Santa Maria Novella, which departs around 5:35 AM. This allows you to reach Venice’s Santa Lucia station by early morning, putting you right in the city center and within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Grand Canal, Piazza San Marco, and San Marco Basilica.

Start your itinerary with a leisurely walk along the Grand Canal, soaking in the beautiful Venice scenery. Then, explore Piazza San Marco, home to the stunning Basilica di San Marco and the famous Bridge of Sighs. With just one day to visit Venice, focus on these must-see sights to get a real feel for the city’s charm.

For lunch or a quick snack, try some traditional Venetian cuisine at a local café near the canals. Afterward, consider a short vaporetto ride to experience Venice’s waterways from the water itself before heading back to the city center for some last-minute exploration or shopping.

Keep in mind the last train from Venice back to Florence departs around 9:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your trip without rushing. Plan your day trip carefully to balance sightseeing and travel time, ensuring a fun and memorable visit to one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with kids, or as part of a week-long itinerary, the train ride between Florence and Venice offers a convenient and scenic way to reach your destination and enjoy a perfect day trip.

Ticket Prices and Savings

Now that you know the ticket types and booking methods, let’s take a closer look at pricing and ways to save on your journey.

Ticket Prices by Type

Single tickets for the Florence–Venice route start at around $24 (€22) if purchased early. Prices depend on factors like the train type, service class, and how far in advance you book.

Discounts to Know About

Booking early and taking advantage of seasonal deals can help reduce costs. There are also special reduced rates for specific groups, such as seniors, young travelers, or groups. Check the train operator’s website for details on eligibility and how to apply these discounts.

Using Rail Passes

You can use both Eurail and Interrail passes for travel between Florence and Venice. Here’s a quick breakdown of pass options:

• Interrail Italy One Country Pass: Starts at about $157 (€144).

• Interrail Global Pass: Starts at approximately $231 (€212).

Rail passes are ideal for travelers planning multiple trips across Italy. However, keep these points in mind:

• High-speed trains require mandatory seat reservations.

• Compare the cost of a rail pass to individual tickets to see which option works better for your trip.

• The Italy One Country Pass covers travel throughout mainland Italy and its islands.

While rail passes offer flexibility, they might not be the most cost-effective option for a single trip. Think about your broader travel plans in Italy before deciding whether to purchase a pass or stick with single tickets.

Important Rules and Fees

Booking and Change Fees

Check ticket policies before traveling, as fees can vary depending on the operator and ticket type.

Baggage Rules

Most trains don’t enforce strict weight limits, but Italo Smart class has a size restriction of 75×53×30 cm for bags. Foldable bicycles are allowed on board. Be sure to label your luggage and use the storage areas provided to make boarding easier.

Also, keep in mind there are specific entry fees when visiting Venice.

Venice Entry Fee

Since 2025, day visitors to Venice will need to pay a tourist access fee. Here’s a breakdown of the fee structure:

This fee applies only to Venice’s historic center on select days in April, May, June, and July, between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM.

Exemptions include:

• Overnight guests staying in Venice (including Murano, Burano, and Lido), though they must register for a QR code.

• Children under 14 years old.

Exploring Venice: Arrival and Key Attractions

Venice is a truly magical city, renowned worldwide for its unique charm and historic beauty. This Italian city is built on a network of canals, connected by picturesque bridges, making it unlike any other destination in the world. Upon arriving at Venice’s Santa Lucia station, you’ll find yourself just steps away from the heart of the city center, where iconic landmarks like the Grand Canal, the Bridge of Sighs, and Piazza San Marco (Mark’s Square) await your exploration.

The Santa Lucia station is conveniently located on the island itself, providing direct access to Venice’s labyrinth of narrow streets and waterways. From here, you can easily walk to many of the city’s most famous sights or hop on a vaporetto (water bus) to explore further. The stunning architecture, vibrant tourism scene, and the timeless atmosphere of beautiful Venice make it a destination that captures the imagination of every traveler.

Whether you’re planning to stroll along the canals, visit historic churches and museums, or simply soak in the ambience of this enchanting city, arriving at Santa Lucia station places you in the perfect location to begin your Venetian adventure. Venice’s iconic landmarks and world-famous sites are all within easy reach, ensuring that your visit will be filled with unforgettable moments and the chance to truly explore one of the world’s most captivating cities.

Travel Tips

Traveling by train from Florence to Venice can be a smooth and enjoyable experience if you plan ahead. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your journey:

• Book in Advance: To get the best ticket prices and secure your preferred seats, it’s wise to book your train tickets well in advance. Early bookings often come with discounts and avoid booking fees that may apply closer to the travel date.

• Use Vending Machines and Online Booking: At Florence Santa Maria Novella station and Venice stations, you’ll find multilingual self-service vending machines that allow quick and convenient ticket purchases using credit or debit cards. Alternatively, booking online through Trenitalia or Italo’s websites or apps offers ease and flexibility.

• Manage Your Luggage Efficiently: Both high-speed and regional trains provide ample storage space for luggage. Make sure your bags are properly labeled and fit within any size restrictions. Italo’s Smart class, for example, limits bag size to 75×53×30 cm. Keep essentials handy in your glove compartment or carry-on.

• Navigate Stations with Ease: Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station is centrally located, making it easy to reach by public transport or on foot. Venice’s Santa Lucia station places you right in the heart of the city center, perfect for exploring iconic landmarks. Allow extra time to navigate busy stations, especially during peak travel periods.

• Enjoy Comfort and Amenities: Most high-speed trains offer air conditioning, power outlets, and comfortable seating, ensuring a relaxing trip through the beautiful Italian countryside. Some trains also provide snack vending machines or onboard food services.

• Save Money When Possible: Traveling during off-peak hours, booking single tickets in advance, and considering regional trains can help reduce costs. Keep an eye out for special offers and discounts, especially if you’re traveling with kids or planning a week-long itinerary.

With these tips, your train ride between two of Italy’s most beautiful cities will be convenient, comfortable, and fun.

Summary

Traveling by train from Florence to Venice is straightforward, with services provided by Trenitalia and Italo. High-speed trains are quicker than regional ones, and ticket options range in terms of flexibility.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Trains to Venice usually stop at either Santa Lucia (on the island) or Mestre (on the mainland).

• Baggage rules differ depending on the service, so it’s a good idea to check restrictions when booking.

• Ticket prices depend on the time of travel. Booking early or choosing off-peak hours can help save money.

Both operators provide modern, comfortable trains with frequent departures from early morning to late evening.