Taking the train from Vicenza to Milan is quick and convenient. Here’s what you need to know:
- Distance: 173 miles
- Fastest Travel Time: ~2 hours 25 minutes
- Daily Trains: 86
- Operators: Trenitalia (Frecce, Intercity, Regional) and Italo (high-speed)
- Ticket Prices: Start at $22 for regional trains, $29 for Italo, and $49 for Frecciarossa
- Main Station in Milan: Milan Centrale
Ticket Options:
- Standard Class: Basic comfort with luggage storage.
- First Class: Wider seats, more legroom, and fewer passengers.
- Family Discounts: Kids under 4 travel free without a seat. Discounts for ages 4–12.
Travel Tips:
- High-Speed Trains: Best for speed (~2.5 hours).
- Regional Trains: Cheaper but slower (~3+ hours).
- Book Early: Save money and secure seats, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Seat Reservations: Required for high-speed trains.
For a smooth trip, plan ahead, compare ticket types, and check schedules on Trenitalia or Italo’s websites.
How to take the train in Italy
Available Ticket Types
There are several ticket options to fit different travel preferences. Here’s what you need to know:
Standard Class Tickets
Standard class tickets provide all the basics for a comfortable trip. High-speed trains feature individual seats with plenty of legroom, while regional trains often have bench-style seating. Each train car includes luggage storage, though space can get tight during busy travel periods [2].
First Class Options
First class offers a more comfortable experience with wider seats, extra legroom, and fewer passengers [2]. On some routes, you may also receive complimentary snacks, drinks, and newspapers.
Group and Family Tickets
Trenitalia provides discounted rates for families and groups. Below are the typical discounts available:
| Age Group | High-Speed/Long-Distance | Regional Trains |
|---|---|---|
| Under 4 | Free without seat, 50% with seat | Free if no seat |
| 4–12 | 50% discount | 50% discount |
| 13–15 | 50% discount | Full price |
The "Bimbi Gratis" promotion on Intercity trains lets children under 15 travel for free while accompanying adults get a 40% discount on base fares. This deal is valid for family groups of 2 to 5 people. For regional trains, terms may differ depending on the region, so be sure to check the conditions when booking.
Train Companies on This Route
Both Trenitalia and Italo operate on the Vicenza–Milan route, offering different service levels to suit various travel preferences and budgets.
Trenitalia Frecciarossa Services
Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa trains come with four service levels: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. Each option includes specific amenities, catering to a range of comfort and travel needs.
Italo Train Services
Italo, run by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), provides three class options: Smart, Prima, and Club Executive. These classes are tailored for passengers seeking varying degrees of comfort and convenience.
Local Train Options
For a more affordable option, Trenitalia’s regional trains are available. These trains make more stops along the route, which means longer travel times but significantly lower ticket prices. Amenities are basic, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Route Options
Here’s a breakdown of the travel routes between Vicenza and Milan, highlighting both direct and connecting options.
Non-Stop Trains
Trenitalia Frecciarossa and Italo offer high-speed trains that go directly from Vicenza to Milan without any stops. These direct trains take about 2 hours and 25 minutes, with around 45 departures daily. Ticket prices start at approximately $31.50 (€29) for Italo and $53 (€49) for Frecciarossa [1][3].
Routes with Stops
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are routes with stops along the way. Common stops include Verona Porta Nuova, Brescia, Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione, and Padova.
Regional trains connect through these stations, and some routes may require a transfer at Verona Porta Nuova. While these trips take longer, tickets start at about $24 (€22) [3], making them a cost-effective choice.
The high-speed trains run along the main Milan–Venice railway line, while regional trains provide access to branch lines serving areas like Schio and Treviso. These options let you balance travel time, cost, and the chance to explore local destinations.
With these route choices in mind, you can decide on the ticket type and booking method that works best for your trip.
How to Buy Tickets
Train Company Websites
Both Trenitalia and Italo, the main operators on the Vicenza–Milan route, make it easy to book tickets directly on their websites. On Trenitalia’s site, you can purchase tickets without signing up, though creating an account helps with managing and recovering your bookings if needed. Italo’s website also supports direct ticket purchases. Once you book, your ticket is emailed to you and can be shown on your phone during your trip – no need to print it. Both companies also offer mobile apps for faster ticket purchases.
Booking Platforms
If you prefer using a mobile platform, Trenitalia’s app is a helpful option for buying tickets. For high-speed trains, booking ahead – especially during the busy travel months from March to November – can help you lock in better prices and ensure availability.
Station Ticket Offices
You can also buy tickets in person at staffed ticket offices in Vicenza and Milan. However, for high-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo, waiting until the last minute to purchase at the station might leave you with fewer options. To avoid this, booking online ahead of time is a smarter choice, especially during peak travel periods.
Prices and Discounts
Ticket Costs
Ticket prices depend on factors like travel class, booking timing, and train type. Regional trains tend to have lower fares, while high-speed trains can be more expensive, especially during peak travel times. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, check the official train operator’s website. Booking tickets in advance often leads to lower prices.
Early Booking Savings
Booking early can lead to substantial discounts. For example, Trenitalia once ran a "Freccia Christmas" promotion, giving CartaFRECCIA members up to 50% off select routes when booked at least 30 days ahead.
Discount Programs
In addition to early booking, there are several discount programs that can help reduce travel costs. Trenitalia’s CartaFRECCIA loyalty program rewards frequent travelers with points and exclusive membership tiers (Argento, Oro, Platino), offering access to discounts and other perks.
- Youth Discounts: The Carta Verde card, priced at about $44 (40 euros) per year, is available for travelers aged 12–26. It provides a 10% discount on base fares [5].
- Senior Benefits: The Carta Argento card costs roughly $33 (30 euros) annually for travelers over 60. It’s free for passengers 75 and older and offers discounts on Intercity and regional trains [5].
Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more, and CartaFRECCIA members can earn points to redeem for future trips. Higher membership tiers unlock additional perks. Partnerships with companies like Booking.com, Best Western, Starhotels, and car rental services such as Avis, Budget, and Maggiore also provide opportunities for extra savings [4].
Train Times and Duration
Once you’ve checked ticket prices, it’s time to look at train schedules and travel times to help plan your trip.
Daily Train Schedule
High-speed trains operate frequently during busy hours, with fewer departures during quieter times. Regional trains are also available on this route, but they may require transfers, which can add to your overall travel time.
Travel Time
High-speed trains provide the quickest option, while regional trains with more stops take longer. Travel times may also vary depending on whether you’re traveling during peak hours or on weekends.
Operating Hours
Trains between Vicenza and Milan run every day, starting early in the morning and continuing into the evening. On weekends and holidays, schedules may change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest timetable from the train operator before your trip.
Extra Costs and Rules
Before you book, make sure you’re aware of these additional fees and rules.
Seat Booking Fees
High-speed trains often require seat reservations. If you board a train that’s not listed on your ticket, you’ll face a €10 ($11) penalty and will also need to cover any fare differences.
Ticket Changes
| Ticket Type | Changes Allowed | Refund Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Changes to date/time allowed with payment of any fare difference | Refunds available with a 20% deduction from the ticket price |
| Economy | One-time date/time change allowed, based on Base fare pricing | Refunds are not available |
| Super Economy | Changes are not allowed | Refunds are not available |
| Family | Free date/time changes; other changes require payment of fare difference | Refunds available with a 20% deduction from the ticket price |
| FrecciaFamily | One free change up to departure (up to 2 days before travel) | Refunds are not available |
Make sure you understand these policies to avoid surprises and extra fees.
Baggage Rules
- Pack only what you can comfortably carry.
- Maximum luggage size for Smart class: 75 x 53 x 30 cm.
- Overhead racks are available for small bags, and larger suitcases can be stored in designated spaces.
- Foldable bicycles, strollers, and carriers are allowed at no extra charge.
Since there’s no check-in process, you’re responsible for keeping your belongings safe. Train cars provide video-monitored compartments and lockers for convenience, but baggage insurance is not included.
Using Interrail Passes
Pass Rules
Interrail passes let you travel on certain Trenitalia routes, including the stretch between Vicenza and Milan. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options:
| Pass Type | Coverage | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Italy One Country Pass | All Trenitalia services | Not available to Italian residents |
| Global Pass | Trenitalia services + international routes | Only for European residents |
| First Class Pass | Access to 1st and 2nd class carriages | Higher cost |
| Second Class Pass | Access to 2nd class carriages only | Standard pricing |
Note: These passes only cover Trenitalia services. Private operators like Italo are NOT included in the pass [7].
Keep in mind, reservations are required for high-speed and InterCity trains, even if you have a pass.
Required Reservations
While your Interrail pass covers the train fare, you’ll need to pay extra for seat reservations on certain services. Here’s what to expect:
| Train Type | Reservation Fee | Booking Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Le Frecce (High-speed) | $12 per journey | Up to 1 hour before departure |
| InterCity | $10 per journey | Up to 1 hour before departure |
| Regional trains | No reservation needed | Not applicable |
Family Perk: If you’re traveling with kids under 12, your pass allows up to two children to travel for free [6].
Booking Tips
- Reserve seats early, especially during busy travel seasons.
- Use the official Interrail tool to check reservation fees.
- Always carry your pass and reservation confirmation with you.
- For regional trains, reservations aren’t necessary.
While Interrail passes offer flexibility, they might not always be the cheapest option for this route. Compare the combined cost of the pass and reservation fees with regular point-to-point tickets to see what works best for your travel dates [7].
Summary
Here’s a recap of the travel details covered earlier:
High-speed options like Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa and Italo get you between Vicenza and Milan in about 2 hours and 25 minutes. Regional trains take longer but are easier on the wallet [1].
| Train Type | Starting Price | Journey Time | Daily Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frecciarossa | $49 | ~2.5 hours | Multiple departures |
| Italo | $29 | ~2.5 hours | Multiple departures |
| Regionale | $22 | 3+ hours | Limited service |
To save money, consider these tips: book tickets several weeks ahead, opt for regional trains if you’re okay with a slower trip, keep an eye out for promotions or seasonal discounts, and explore day-return tickets for extra savings.
High-speed trains come with perks like air conditioning, power outlets, Wi-Fi, and café cars. Luggage racks are available, but keep in mind that service frequency may drop on weekends and holidays.
Important: Seat reservations are mandatory on high-speed trains, even with an Interrail pass. For the latest schedules and prices, visit the operators’ websites, as fares fluctuate based on demand and season.
This route offers a reliable connection between Vicenza and Milan.
