If you’re planning to travel by train in Italy (which we highly recommend since it’s fast, scenic, and efficient), there are a few things you definitely want to avoid. We’ve learned these lessons the hard way, sprinting down platforms, hauling too many bags, and getting lost in massive train stations. Learn from us, and your train journey through Italy will be smooth, scenic, and stress-free.

Here are 5 things you DON’T want to do when taking the train in Italy 

1. Don’t Be Late

In our experience, Italian trains are surprisingly punctual (especially when they are leaving from a main station), and no, they won’t wait for you. Arrive early, especially in big stations like Rome Termini or Milano Centrale. If your ticket says 10:02, your train will likely depart at 10:02. Save yourself the heart-pounding dash and aim to arrive at least 20–30 minutes early.

2. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Find Your Platform

Platforms are often posted just 15-30 minutes before departure, depending on the route and station, but that doesn’t mean you should chill at the café until the last second. Some platforms can be far, like really far. One time in Rome, we thought there were only two tracks… until we realized there were dozens more across the station. Our train was naturally all the way at the other end. We had to run to get to it.  Our last trip out of Rome Termini on a local train was again all the way at the end, and it was at least a 10-minute walk once we got through the turnstile, so plan ahead.

3. Don’t Overpack

And we mean this with all the love: DO. NOT. OVERPACK. You’ll be lugging everything you bring down long platforms, up and down stairs (elevators are rare), and onto the train, which may not have much luggage space. On one trip through Rome, we had to carry our bags up a few flights of stairs. It was not the Italian fantasy we had in mind. Bring only what you can comfortably carry for 20 minutes, and thank us later.

4. Don’t Carry Flashy Bags or Leave Things Unattended

Although we’ve never had an issue on trains, theft can happen, especially in touristy hubs and on trains. Don’t leave your bags unattended, and if you can’t bear to lose something, don’t bring it. Keep your essentials (passport, phone, wallet) in a crossbody bag or an anti-theft daypack on your person, and stay aware.

5. Don’t Bring Luggage You Can’t Lift

Some trains have only overhead storage, like on our recent trip to Umbria from Rome to Foligno Station, where we had to hoist our bags over our heads. There’s rarely anyone to help, unless there's a good Samaritan close by, so pack light and pack smart. Rolling suitcases are great, but make sure you can lift them too.

More of Our Tips for Italian Train Travel

• Keep your passport handy. On our last journey, they checked our passports on board.

• Use the app! Most tickets are electronic these days. Save time by loading your ticket into the Trenitalia app before boarding, regardless of where you buy the ticket.

• Ask for help if you need it. In our experience, train staff are generally friendly and helpful. On a recent trip, we accidentally bought train tickets at a kiosk, but the train left before we could get on. We asked a conductor if we could take the express train instead, since it would be another half hour, and they let us pay the difference on board, no problem.

Train travel in Italy is one of the best ways to get around the country affordably, from visiting the Tuscan or Umbrian vineyards to seaside towns like Naples, down to the Amalfi coast, and to the big, bustling cities of Rome, Milan, Venice, and Florence. Just keep these tips in mind, and you’ll glide through the experience like a pro (and maybe even help another tourist along the way!).

 Planning A Trip to Italy? See all our Italy Resources Here.