Cheap Ways to Get Around Italy: Trains, Buses, Ride Shares, and More

Published on May 11, 2025

by Victoria Ricci

Italy is a diverse and well-connected country with countless places to explore—from major cities to charming villages. But navigating it affordably takes some strategy. With the right mix of trains, buses, ride shares, and local transport, budget travelers can get around without sacrificing experience. This guide shows the cheapest and smartest ways to move around Italy.

1. Trains – Smart Booking Can Save You Big

Book in advance: Trenitalia and Italo tickets are cheapest when booked 2–3 weeks ahead.
Use apps like Trenitalia, Italo, or Omio to compare prices and schedules.
Regional trains (Regionale) are slower but significantly cheaper. No need to book ahead.
Off-peak travel (midday, weekdays) often yields cheaper tickets.
Consider passes: Interrail or Trenitalia’s regional passes may be worth it if traveling extensively.

2. Long-Distance Buses – Super Cheap and Reliable

FlixBus and Itabus offer low-cost routes across Italy, with fares from €5–€15.
Book a few days in advance to get the lowest rates.
Some trips are longer than train rides but cost a fraction.
Bring snacks and charge your phone—some journeys can last several hours.
Look for route bundles or passes for additional savings.

3. Ride Sharing – Flexible and Social

BlaBlaCar is popular in Italy and can cost less than trains.
Rides from Rome to Florence or Milan often cost €15–€25.
Use with caution—check driver reviews and arrange pick-up in advance.
Ideal for last-minute or less accessible routes.

4. Local Transit – Urban Travel on a Budget

Cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples have metro systems with €1.50–€2.00 tickets.
Day and multi-day transit passes can save money if you ride multiple times a day.
Apps like Moovit or Google Maps help plan efficient local journeys.
Consider city bike-share or scooter apps for short trips.
Walking is free—and often the best way to explore Italy’s historic centers.

5. Other Budget Options

Car rentals can be cost-effective for groups—check for weekend or regional deals.
Night trains (like Milan to Sicily) save on both travel and accommodation.
Ferries in coastal regions (e.g., Amalfi Coast, Sardinia) offer budget connections between seaside towns.
Student and senior discounts are available on many train and bus networks.

Tips for Booking Transport Cheaply

Compare prices using Omio, Trainline, or the apps of Trenitalia and Italo.
Be flexible with travel times and days—Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheapest.
Subscribe to alerts or follow operators on social media for flash sales.
Buy directly from provider sites or apps when possible—third-party fees can add up.
Travel light on low-cost bus and train services to avoid baggage surcharges.

Bonus: Save Money on the Road

Stay in hostels or budget hotels—filter by price on Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Picnic with supermarket food instead of eating out every meal.
Use refillable bottles—Italy has many public fountains with clean drinking water.
Use discount apps like Too Good To Go for surplus food deals.
Explore on foot—Italy’s cities are made for walking and wandering.

Final Thoughts

Traveling across Italy doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. With a little planning and flexibility, you can take advantage of an excellent network of budget transport options—while still seeing the best of the country. From high-speed rail to scenic buses and shared rides, there’s an affordable way to get wherever you want to go.