You will definitely need to move around your local town, village, or city after settling in your new home in Italy. This makes it imperative to have a good understanding of the Italian transportation system before you step out of your home. Here are a few examples of some of the major means of transport in the Beautiful Country.
Railway – The state railway system, also known as the ‘Trenitalia’ serves most parts of the entire country. Its network is quite extensive and compared to other European countries, the Trenitalia is far less expensive. A train ride is an excellent way of enjoying the scenic landscapes and stunning views of the country. It is however important to have a ticket at hand you have to validate in the machines before getting into the train to avoid buying a more expensive ticket on-board or incurring in a fine. Advanced booking tickets are also available for as long as 2 months before the travel day.
The Trenitalia is currently facing stiff competition from the introduction of the private Italo which is an environmentally friendly bullet train plying to and from some of the major cities of Rome, Naples, Milan, etc. You can easily get the travel timetable or book your ticket from the company’s website as in the case of Trenitalia.
Buses – Travelling by bus is a good option if you are visiting small villages and towns that are not served by the train. It is also a more affordable choice when travelling over long distances.
The bus is also a convenient way of travelling between different neighbourhoods within a major city especially during peak hours when most roads are congested with traffic. Italy has a wide network of buses connecting different regions and cities too. A bus ride furthermore gives you a great opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views of the country especially while travelling Le Marche to Tuscany via historical towns in the Umbria region such as Perugia and Assisi. You can always ask a travel agent for a bus travel plan that best fits your needs.
Travelling by car – If you love having your own personal and independent travel plans, then renting a car is your best option. You simply need to get a car equipped with a good GPS navigator and preferably an Off-Roader to explore the hidden paradises in off-the-track terrains. A car will take you wherever you want without the restrictions associated with bus or train schedules.
However, you will have to be careful of speed cameras known as autovelox that are usually installed on many long-distance highways and roads to ensure drivers stay within the required speed limits. You may also have problems finding a parking spot in big cities or towns.
The mode of transport you choose will largely depend on your personal preference, budget, and the area you want to visit in this Beautiful Country.