About the journey from Milan to Rome
The average train time from Milan to Rome is 3h 24m, although it takes just 2h 56m on the fastest direct high-speed services. There are around 45 trains per day running from Milan to Rome, the first train leaves from Milan Central at 05:20 and the last train leaves at 23:17.
- All trains depart from Milan (Centrale) Central station.
- All trains arrive into Rome Termini station.
From the trendy north of Italy to its cultural centre, the journey from Milan to Rome isn't quite long enough for a plane and isn't quite short enough to drive. That's where we come in. With a choice of modern Italian trains waiting to whish you from one destination to another (see below), you can be in Rome taking in the Colosseum or the Basilica in less than three hours.
As this is such a popular route with locals and tourists alike, there are around 44 direct high-speed trains running from Milan to Rome a day. Both Trenitalia and Italo – the main train operators in Italy – offer high-speed services including Trenitalia's Frecciarossa trains, the fastest in the country. Standard Class on these trains offers comfortable seating, free WiFi and plenty of space for luggage, but if you fancy treating yourself, go First Class for complimentary snacks along the way.
Once you arrive in Rome, the iconic Roman Forum is within walking distance, so you can start exploring straight away. Ready to book? Keep reading for train times, ticket prices and FAQs about this train journey.
Milan to Rome by train
Frecciarossa, Italo, Trenitalia and Frecciabianca trains from Milan to Rome
Frecciarossa
Italo
Trenitalia
Frecciabianca
Frecciarossa trains are Trenitalia's flagship high-speed trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). The "red arrow" trains are distinguished by their comfort, their ultra-modern design and their reduced impact on the environment. All Frecciarossa trains are equipped with a food carriage, a free WiFi connection and four levels of service – Standard, Premium (with drinks and welcome snacks served on arrival, as well as a morning newspaper), Business (with drinks and snacks, morning newspaper and larger seats) and Executive (with Fast Track, access to FrecciaClub lounges in train selected stations, and gourmet meals served to your seat).
Italo is a high-speed train operator that runs services between many of the major cities across Italy. All Italo trains are modern, air conditioned, and have free WiFi available for all travellers. There are four comfort classes, or "ambiances", as Italo like to call them – Smart (the cheapest price), Comfort (with wider seats and extra legroom), Prima (with a welcome selection of food and drink, fast track boarding and extra space), and Executive Club (with all Prima services, extra-wide seats, access to Italo Club lounges and personal entertainment screens at your seat).
More information
Trenitalia is the national railway company of Italy, with a fleet including high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca), Intercity and Intercity night trains and regional trains. Trenitalia offers discounts and special promotions on selected routes, two types of discounted tickets for young people under 30 and people over 60.
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Frecciabianca trains operate outside Trenitalia high-speed lines. Offering more than 40 daily routes, they're capable of reaching a maximum speed of 125 mph (200 km/h). Frecciabianca trains connect the centres of northern and southern Italy, running along the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts. All Frecciabianca trains have power sockets and large reclining seats, as well as ample space for luggage. There are two classes of service – First Class and Second Class. In First Class, customers can look forward to a welcome service with snacks and drinks and a morning newspaper.
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Cheap train tickets from Milan to Rome
- lowest price found‡
- from€10.90
- 4 weeksin advance‡
- avg. single price€69.32
- 2 weeksin advance‡
- avg. single price€70.24
- on the day‡
- avg. single price€85.72
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Milan to Rome by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guide to check when European train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
Journey details
How long does the train from Milan to Rome take?
The average journey time by train between Milan and Rome is 11 hours and 6 minutes, with around 5 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
How fast does the train from Milan to Rome travel?
Frecciarossa high-speed trains from Milan to Rome can travel at speeds of up to 217 mph (350 km/h). The fastest journey time from Milan to Rome by train is 3 hours and 39 minutes.
How much does the train from Milan to Rome cost?
The average train ticket price from Milan to Rome usually costs around €70.24 two weeks before travel, but can start from as little as €10.90 when you book in advance. Prices also vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Milan to Rome?
Yes. There are 1 direct Trenitalia or Italo trains that travel from Milan to Rome each day with an average journey time of 11 hours and 6 minutes.
What time does the first train from Milan to Rome leave?
The first train from Milan to Rome leaves at 09:48 from Milan Central. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Milan to Rome leave?
The last train from Milan to Rome leaves at 18:33 from Milan Central. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Milan and Rome by train?
Trains travelling from Milan to Rome cover a distance of around 296 miles (477 km) during the journey.
Which train companies operate between Milan and Rome?
All trains travelling from Milan to Rome are operated by Trenitalia – the national railway company in Italy, or Italo – a high-speed train operator that runs services between many major cities in Italy.
