Venice and Rome, the two Italian cities topping traveler’s bucket lists.
Need we explain why?
From the Colosseum and the canals to the grand squares, picturesque piazzas, and other iconic backdrops, these two cities have deservedly earned their place as Italy’s must-see destinations.
Sure, you could bookend a cruise at either port (though Rome’s "port" isn’t in Rome), but you’ll want more than a rushed half-day to explore these amazing cities. Instead, rely on Italy’s speedy rail lines to have a morning cappuccino on the Spanish Steps and a romantic evening dinner alongside Venice’s dreamy canals.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Vladislav Zolotov. Image Location: Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy
At A Glance: Trains from Rome to Venice
- Rome’s station: Roma Termini
- Venice’s station: Venezia Santa Lucia
- How far is Rome to Venice by train: 245 miles
- Fastest duration for high-speed trains: 3h 16m
- Average duration for general trains: 4h 6m
- Number of trains per day: 49
- Ticket prices: As low as $12.15 when you book in advance
- Earliest departure: 5.45AM
- Latest departure: 10:35PM
You could drive between Rome and Venice…but should you?
Roughly 300 miles separate the Colosseum from St. Mark’s Square by car; that’s about the same distance between Boston and Philadelphia, which is totally reasonable for a road trip in the States. But it’s not as smooth of a drive in Italy.
The good news is that Italian traffic does drive on the same side of the road as in the U.S., and if you’re lucky, you may be able to rent a car with an automatic transmission. Though, regardless of which vehicle size you rent, you’ll notice that Italy’s roads are much smaller and the claustrophobic parking garages are ominous reminders that you should have opted for extra rental insurance.
And let’s not forget the restricted driving zones that pop up in popular cities, including Rome. Don’t think you’re slick enough to pull through a pedestrian-only zone or leave the engine running in a no-parking zone.
The parking authorities are good, really good. Even if you have a parking misstep in a rental car, they will track you down and send a lovely souvenir to your home address: a penalty ticket.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Rome, Italy
So take the 1-hour flight then, right?
If you’ve flown on a plane even once, then you know that the flight time is only one element of the total travel time.
Neither of Rome’s airports are in the city center and both require at least 30 minutes of transport time. Venice’s airport is outside of the city, too, and that trip may range from 30-45 minutes to over an hour, depending on mode of transportation.
Then add in the two or three hours for preflight airport arrival and you’re looking at the same time it would take to drive the distance.
The train is by far the most comfortable and convenient way to get between Venice’s city center and Rome’s city center. Fewer baggage restrictions and no security lines already eliminate the hurdles of air travel, while free WiFi and on-board food and beverages for purchase make the journey much more enjoyable than being cramped up for a long car ride.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Venice, Italy
Asked & Answered: Trains from Venice to Rome
Is it possible to do a day trip to Venice from Rome?
Yes, if you book a trip on the earliest and latest train departures. If you’re on a super tight schedule and can’t bear to leave Italy without visiting them both, then you’ll have no regrets. However, each city is astounding in its own right and both deserve multiple days of exploration.
How long is the train ride from Rome to Venice?
The train ride between Venice and Rome can range between just over 3 hours and as much as 6 hours, depending on the train. On average, it’s safe to assume many trains will get you there in four-hour’s time.
Is the train ride from Rome to Venice scenic?
Yes, even the high-speed trains between Rome and Venice offer lovely views of the rolling hills. Though some of the journey is flat, and there are multiple tunnels, the final jaunt over the Venetian lagoon into Venice is worth the trip alone.
Download the Trainline app to buy and store your tickets with no hassle.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Kirill Rudenko. Image Location: Venice, Italy