Italy travel and transport

In this section you can read advice on travelling to Italy using different types of transport, and travelling around the country once you have arrived.

Most international visitors will be considering flying to Italy. The country has several major international airports, and fairly good coverage of smaller airports, often served by budget airlines. If you are travelling within Europe, then train travel is another option for reaching Italy.

> Italy airports - directory of international airports in Italy, along with practical travel advice and suggested holiday destinations nearby
> UK to Italy by rail - advice on planning a train journey to Italy, changing in Paris
> Get to Italy - full travel advice on both flying and non-flying options

Those wishing to explore Italy by car will find this reasonably easy to organise. There are car-rental offices at airports and other strategic points in towns; it's best to book online in advance. However, Italy has a fairly comprehensive public transport network, and it is possible to explore the country affordably without a car. Using public transport isn't always straightforward - you'll need to do some advance research, and plan around timetables - but it can be a rewarding way to see Italy and encounter Italians.

Train travel is generally the best way to get around Italy, but in remote or hilly areas buses may be the easier, the quicker or the only option. Boats also provide vital transport links around Italy's lakes and islands. Throughout the destination guides on this website, travellers will find information and advice on local transport options. I also suggest independent holiday itineraries touring Italy by public transport.

> Get around Italy - driving advice, train and bus information, urban transport details and more