Intercity Notte: everything you have to know about night trains in Italy

Written by Tolt

Published on February 9, 2025

Wondering how to travel around Italy on the cheap? Intercity Notte night trains are the ideal way to travel from north to south. For example, you can travel from Milan or Turin to Rome, Naples, Apulia or Calabria, or even Sicily! As well as optimizing your time, this mode of transport saves you hotel nights and, of course, limits your carbon footprint. How do I book? How much does it cost? What are the destinations? We answer all your questions in this article.

What routes and destinations are served?

Intercity Notte network

The Intercity Notte network covers a large part of Italy, linking the main northern cities with the southern regions and Sicily. Here are just a few of the routes on offer:

• Turin - Salerno: 4 trains a day
• Turin - Reggio Calabria: 2 trains a day
• Turin - Lecce: 2 trains a day
• Milan - Lecce: 4 trains a day
• Milan - Messina, Syracuse, Palermo: 2 trains a day
• Rome - Messina, Syracuse, Palermo: 4 trains a day
• Rome - Trieste: 2 trains a day
• Rome - Lecce: 2 trains at weekends
• Rome - Bolzano, S. Candido: 2 trains at weekends

Along the way, some lines also serve the superb cities of Bologna, Florence, Venice and Naples.

If you like unusual experiences, you should also know that trains crossing the Strait of Messina ride on a ferry! A unique experience, with a crossing lasting around 30 minutes.

We haven't yet had the chance to explore all these destinations, but as you'll have gathered, these connections offer you the chance to discover historic towns and magnificent coastal landscapes.

What are the different comfort levels?

Intercity Notte trains offer several levels of comfort to suit every traveler's needs and budget.

Seating

The most economical option, with spacious seats, footrests, folding tables, power sockets and courtesy lights.

Comfort Sleeper

In a compartment for 4 people. A sealed bedding kit is provided, as well as a mini travel kit containing personal hygiene products. A light breakfast is also included.

Deluxe sleeper car

© Tolt Productions - A comfortable cabin for two: what could be better?

Compartments for exclusive use in single, double or triple configuration, with prepared beds, washbasin and mirror. A travel kit with toiletries is provided, and breakfast is included.

Excelsior cabin

The ultimate in comfort, with compartments featuring spacious beds, a private bathroom with shower, and a welcome service including snacks and beverages. A premium travel kit is provided, and breakfast is included.

How much do tickets cost?

Prices vary according to the level of comfort chosen:

• Seat: from €29.
• Comfort berth (4 seats): approx. €41 per person.
• Deluxe cabin: from €58.
• Cabin Excelsior: approx. €122.

Is the Interrail Pass valid for this line?

Yes, it is! You can book your Intercity Notte night train via the official Interrail website. Please note that Interrail booking fees are €2 per person per train, with an additional €9 per order for paper tickets.

How do I book tickets?

Reservations can be made :

• Online on the official Trenitalia website or via the Trenitalia app,
• Via platforms such as Trainline, which generally offer competitive fares,
• Directly at an Italian station (at ticket offices or self-service kiosks).

When to book tickets?

Reservations are compulsory (including with the Interrail Pass), and can be made up to 6 months in advance. And if you want to pay the best price for your tickets, you've probably heard the old adage: the earlier the better (prices rise as the departure date approaches)!

This rule is all the more valid if you're using an Interrail Pass, as the number of seats and berths reserved for Pass holders is limited.

Are pets allowed on Italian night trains?

Yes, if you're traveling with your four-legged friend, he or she may accompany you, but only under certain conditions:

• Small pets weighing less than 5 kg can travel free of charge in a crate (maximum dimensions: 70 x 30 x 50 cm).
• Larger dogs must be kept on a leash and muzzled. Please note that they require a special ticket (€5 or €1 on Saturdays).
• Please note that when you buy your ticket, you must reserve a couchette compartment or cabin to travel with your pet (except for assistance guide dogs, which travel free of charge with no restrictions), and present your dog's identity papers (which must be kept with you during the journey, or penalties will apply).

Can I travel with a bicycle?

It is not possible to take an unassembled bicycle on board Intercity Notte night trains. However, you can transport your dismantled bike in a bag (maximum dimensions: 80 x 110 x 40 cm), as your personal luggage.

What about PRM access?

Unfortunately, Intercity Notte trains are not specifically adapted for people with reduced mobility (PRM). There are no dedicated wheelchair spaces, nor are there any modern facilities such as ramps or adapted compartments.

On the other hand, Trenitalia offers a station assistance service to help disabled passengers get on and off the train!

Going to Sicily by night train, a magical experience!

Italy abounds in natural, cultural and culinary treasures. But the country also boasts one of Europe's only rail ferries. For an unforgettable experience, we particularly recommend the lines that take you to Sicily (Palermo, Messina, Catania or Syracuse). We've just made a video to share this extraordinary experience with you.

Once you're there, you can also explore this magnificent island by train and bus. We've put together a 10-day tour from Paris that can easily be adapted if you're leaving from another city. You'll also find a video with lots of practical feedback.

Enjoy!