Traveling from Naples to Rome by train is fast, affordable, and convenient. Here’s what you need to know:
- Travel Time: High-speed trains take just 1 hour and 6 minutes, while regional trains take about 3 hours.
- Cost: Tickets range from $10 to $77, depending on the train type and booking time.
- Train Options: Trenitalia and Italo operate high-speed trains, while Trenitalia also offers slower regional services.
- Stations: Most trains run between Naples Centrale and Rome Termini, the main hubs in both cities.
- Amenities: High-speed trains feature free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, power outlets, and onboard cafés.
Tips to Save Money:
- Book tickets early for discounted fares.
- Choose regional trains for a budget-friendly option.
- Look for group discounts or loyalty programs.
With over 70 trains running daily from early morning to late night, you’ll have plenty of options to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, or affordability, there’s a train for you.
Train Tickets and Seating Options
Economy Class Seating
Standard class on Naples–Rome trains offers a comfortable experience with air conditioning, electrical outlets, and Wi-Fi. Passengers can store luggage at the ends of carriages and choose between café car service or food carts that come to their seats.
Regional trains provide standard seating at fixed Ordinaria fares. However, these fares don’t include discounts for booking in advance.
Looking for more comfort? Check out the business and premium seating details below.
Business and Premium Seating
Business class upgrades your journey with wider seats, extra legroom, priority boarding, and dedicated service. Both Trenitalia and Italo offer business class carriages with enhanced amenities.
| Seating Class | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (2nd) | $10.70 (€9.90) | Air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power outlets |
| Business (1st) | $21.50 (€19.90) | Extra legroom, priority boarding, better service |
Now, let’s look at ticket flexibility for these fares.
Fixed vs. Changeable Tickets
Ticket flexibility matters on the Naples–Rome route. Here’s a quick breakdown of the two main fare types:
- Super-Economy and Economy Fares: These tickets are cheaper when purchased in advance but come with little or no flexibility for changes or refunds. They’re perfect if your plans are set in stone.
- Base Fares: While more expensive, base fares allow changes and refunds up to an hour before departure.
For high-speed and intercity trains, seat reservations are mandatory. Keep in mind that ticket prices go up as the travel date gets closer, so booking early can save you money.
Train Companies and Service Types
Two main rail operators run services between Naples and Rome: Trenitalia and Italo. Here’s a breakdown of what each offers.
Italo Trains
Italo operates high-speed trains that connect Naples and Rome in just over an hour, reaching speeds of up to 155 mph[1]. These trains include air conditioning, power outlets at every seat, free Wi-Fi, and an onboard café. Departing from Naples Centrale and arriving at Rome Termini, they provide easy access to both city centers.
Trenitalia Services
Trenitalia offers several travel options on this route, catering to a variety of budgets and preferences:
| Service Type | Travel Time | Starting Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frecciarossa | 1h 6m | $16.35 | Fastest option with premium amenities |
| Intercity | 2h+ | $15.25 | A solid mid-range choice |
| Regionale Veloce | 3h+ | $14.40 | Affordable, slower-paced travel |
Local Train Options
For a more economical choice, Trenitalia’s Regionale trains are worth considering. These trains typically take over 3 hours, often require a connection, and depart primarily from Roma Tiburtina. Fares are fixed, starting at around $11[5]. While slower, they remain consistent in pricing and are ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Route Options and Connections
Express Routes
The express train travels directly between Naples Centrale and Rome Termini without any stops. Covering 140 miles at speeds up to 155 mph, it completes the trip in approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes [1]. If you’re interested in stopping at towns along the way, check out the local train options below.
Local Train Routes
Regional trains offer a slower pace with multiple stops, making them ideal for those wanting to explore smaller towns. These trains stop at stations like Latina and Cassino [1][2], providing access to less-traveled destinations along the route.
Airport Transfer Options
For airport connections and local travel, there are several convenient options. The Leonardo Express links directly to Rome’s airport transit system [2]. Naples Centrale also connects to the metro at Napoli Piazza Garibaldi, and Circumvesuviana trains offer routes to Sorrento, Pompeii, and Herculaneum [2].
How to Book and Ticket Prices
Direct Booking Options
You can book tickets for Trenitalia and Italo directly on their official websites. These sites provide real-time availability, pricing, and instant access to digital tickets, which can be shown on your phone or printed at home. It’s a straightforward way to secure your travel plans.
Booking Platforms
Several English-friendly platforms are available for booking. You’ll need to provide:
- Your full name (as it appears on your ID)
- Travel dates
- Preferred departure times
- Seat preferences
Costs and Booking Times
Ticket prices depend on factors like how early you book, the time of travel, seat class, and ticket type. Here’s a breakdown:
| Fare Type | Price Range (USD) | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|
| Super Economy | $10 – $15 | Non-refundable, no changes allowed |
| Economy | $15 – $45 | Limited changes permitted |
| Base | $45 – $77 | Changes allowed up to 60 minutes after departure |
Base fares are the most flexible, allowing changes up to 60 minutes after departure. Super Economy and Economy fares, however, come with stricter change and refund policies.
High-speed train tickets usually include seat reservations in the price. Booking through official channels ensures you see the full cost upfront, with no hidden fees.
Ways to Save Money
Looking to cut down on ticket costs? Here are some practical strategies for saving on Naples-to-Rome train travel.
Early Booking Discounts
Booking your train tickets in advance can save you a lot. For example, high-speed Frecciarossa fares start as low as $16.35 when booked early [4]. While these discounted tickets are less flexible, they’re much cheaper than last-minute rates.
Loyalty Programs and Group Discounts
Both major train operators offer loyalty programs where you can earn rewards like free tickets or upgrades. Traveling with others? Many booking platforms provide group discounts for parties of two or more [3]. If you’re planning multiple trips, rail passes can be a cost-effective choice for added savings.
Budget-Friendly Rail Pass Options
Regional trains are a cheaper alternative to high-speed services. Rail passes offer options like:
- Base fares: Flexible tickets that allow changes up to 60 minutes before departure.
- Intercity services: Tickets starting at $15.25, offering a balance between speed and affordability.
- Speciale Frecce fares: Promotional deals on high-speed trains [3].
Additionally, high-speed trains often run off-peak promotions, letting you enjoy premium travel at lower prices.
Train Times and Trip Duration
Fast Train Schedule
High-speed trains between Naples and Rome operate frequently, with 76 departures every day [1]. These trains cover the 140-mile journey in as little as 1 hour and 6 minutes during their quickest runs [1]. Departures from Naples Centrale to Rome Termini occur two to three times per hour during busy periods [1]. Let’s take a closer look at the slower, regional options.
Local Train Times
Regional trains take longer due to more frequent stops and required transfers [1][2]. These factors significantly increase travel time.
Here’s an overview of the daily operating hours:
Daily Service Hours
- Operating hours: 4:05 AM to 11:46 PM from Naples Centrale [1]
- Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes during peak times
- Weekends: Reduced frequency, which may lead to longer travel times [1]
For those heading back to Naples, there are 96 daily trains departing Rome, with the fastest trips taking 1 hour and 10 minutes [2].
| Service Period | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Hours | Every 20–30 minutes | 1h 6m – 1h 10m |
| Off-Peak | Every 30–60 minutes | 1h 6m – 1h 30m |
| Early Morning/Late Night | Limited service | 1h 10m – 1h 30m |
Extra Fees and Rules
Seat Selection Fees
When booking high-speed trains through platforms like Trenitalia, ItaliaRail, or Trainline, you can choose your seat using interactive maps. However, regional trains operate without reserved seating.
Change and Refund Fees
| Ticket Type | Changes Allowed | Refund Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Yes, with a price difference | 20% deduction |
| Economy | Yes, upgrade to Base fare | No refunds |
| Super Economy | Not permitted | No refunds |
| FrecciaFamily | Free date/time changes | 20% deduction |
| Same Day Return | Free time changes | No refunds |
For regional train tickets, one schedule change is allowed until 11:59 PM the day before your travel date.
These details provide a clear understanding of potential fees tied to ticket changes or cancellations.
Baggage Rules
There are no extra charges for luggage on Naples–Rome trains. Passengers can bring up to three pieces of luggage. Storage options include overhead shelves, under-seat space, and dedicated areas in high-speed train carriages.
For added convenience, the Bagaglio Facile door-to-door luggage delivery service is available:
- First bag: $27 (€25)
- Additional bags: $22 (€20)
Porter services at main stations like Roma Termini cost about $5.50 (€5) per service, payable directly to the porter. Trenitalia does not cover lost luggage, but theft insurance is available. If using Bagaglio Facile, bookings must be made by phone at least 24 hours before your trip.
With these fee and baggage guidelines, you’re well-prepared for a hassle-free journey.
Quick Guide Summary
Here’s a quick look at essential details to help plan your trip:
Train Options & Travel Time
- High-speed trains take just over 1 hour, while regional trains take about 3 hours.
- The route spans roughly 140 miles (223 kilometers).
- More than 70 trains run daily between Naples and Rome, with services offered by Trenitalia and Italo.
Operating Hours
- First train departs at 4:05 AM from Naples Centrale.
- Last train leaves at 11:46 PM. [1]
Ticket Prices
- High-speed trains: $15 to $77.
- Regional trains: Starting at $10.
- Early booking discounts: Starting from $16 (typically $27–$33 when booked a month in advance). [5]
Booking Tips
- Reserve tickets early for better prices.
- Compare Trenitalia and Italo options.
- Regional trains are a budget-friendly alternative.
Stations to Know
- Naples: Centrale (main station) and Afragola (secondary high-speed station).
- Rome: Termini and Tiburtina stations. [1]
Extra Perks
- Free WiFi is available on all Italo trains and Trenitalia Frecciarossa services. [5]
- High-speed trains also offer onboard cafés. [5]
Note: Regional train prices are fixed, while high-speed train fares depend on demand.
Keep this guide handy as you dive into the detailed sections to finalize your travel plans.