Italian Train Stations

Italy’s train stations are bustling hubs of travel, and one of their most iconic features is the Partenze boards—the large digital or mechanical displays showing arrivals and departures. These boards are essential for navigating Italy’s extensive rail network, helping travelers find their platforms, check delays, and plan connections.

Understanding Partenze Boards

Partenze boards typically display:

  • Train number and destination
  • Departure time and platform
  • Status updates (on-time, delayed, canceled)
  • Intermediate stops for longer routes

Real Time Online Boards

Download the apps for Italo and Trenitalia for online access to information. Track numbers are generally not listed until several minutes prior to arrival of the train.

ITALOTRENITALIA
Apple App Store (IOS)Apple App Store (IOS)
Google Play Store (Android)Google Play Store (Android)
ITALOTRENITALIA
Florence (S.M. Novella)Access the section “Train status” on the app. There you can check the train in real time or display all the trains departing from the station you choose.
Naples (Napoli-Centrale
Rome (Termini)
Salerno
Venice (Santa Lucia)

Navigating Italian Train Stations

Major stations like Roma Termini, Milano Centrale, and Firenze Santa Maria Novella have large Partenze boards centrally located, making it easy for travelers to check their schedules. If you’re traveling in Italy, it’s helpful to:

  • Arrive early to familiarize yourself with the station layout.
  • Use mobile apps like Trenitalia or Italo for real-time updates.
  • Pay attention to platform changes, which are common.

Whether you’re catching a high-speed Frecciarossa or a scenic regional train, mastering the Partenze boards will make your Italian rail journey smooth and stress-free! 🚆🇮🇹

In Case of Strike

On days when strikes are held Trenitalia guarantees minimum transport services provided as a result of agreements with trade unions (more info).

Festa della Repubblica June 2nd

Festa della Repubblica 2025: A Celebration of Italian Heritage

Italy’s Festa della Repubblica is a grand occasion, marking the country’s transition to a republic in 1946. While the official holiday falls on June 2, the celebrations extend into June 3, 2025, with exciting events across Rome and beyond.

The official schedule for Festa della Repubblica 2025 in Rome includes grand celebrations on June 2, with some events extending into June 3.

Five-Minute History of Italy (video)

June 2, 2025

  • 9:15 AMAltare della Patria (Piazza Venezia): The President of Italy lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by the flag-raising ceremony.
  • Via di San Gregorio – The President reviews military units, officially launching the military parade.
  • Via dei Fori Imperiali – The grand military parade, featuring Italian Armed Forces, civil protection units, and international delegations.
    • Early Morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) – This is the best time to secure a good spot for the military parade along Via dei Fori Imperiali.
  • Finale – The Frecce Tricolori, Italy’s aerobatic team, performs a spectacular flyover, painting the sky in the colors of the Italian flag.
  • Afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:30 PM) – The Quirinale Gardens open to the public, featuring live performances by military bands and youth choirs.

Palio delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare

One of the standout events on June 3 is the Palio delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare, an annual boat race that brings together the four historic maritime republics—Pisa, Genoa, Amalfi, and Venice. This thrilling regatta showcases Italy’s rich naval traditions, with rowers dressed in period costumes, competing in a race that symbolizes centuries of maritime rivalry.

Cultural and Festive Highlights

Beyond the regatta, Rome continues to buzz with cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions celebrating Italian heritage. Some top spots are:

  • Piazza Venezia – The epicenter of national pride, where you can witness historical reenactments and patriotic displays.
  • Fori Imperiali – A great place to catch parades and cultural performances.
  • Piazza del Popolo – Expect live music and festive gatherings.

Navigating the Crowds

  • Use Side Streets – Avoid main roads like Via del Corso and opt for smaller streets to move around faster.
  • Public Transport – Metro stations near the parade route (like Colosseo and Piazza Venezia) will be crowded, so consider walking or using buses.
  • Book Tickets in Advance – If you plan to visit museums or landmarks, reserve tickets early to skip long lines.

Flying Ryanair

Ryanair is a mid-size carrier with connecting many destinations within Europe. For travelers who value affordability over luxury, Ryanair is a great option. It’s perfect for short-haul trips, city breaks, and last-minute getaways. As long as you plan ahead and follow the airline’s guidelines, flying Ryanair can be an efficient and budget-friendly experience.

There are currently four fare types offered, with increasing cost for seat selection, priority boarding, and baggage. You can watch this video for an explanation of luggage requirements and click here for baggage FAQs.

Ryanair has different baggage allowances depending on services and type of luggage:

Need an inexpensive luggage scale to save you from expensive overweight fees?

Check out this inexpensive electronic luggage scale on Amazon.

What Makes Ryanair Stand Out?

  • Unbeatable Prices – Ryanair is famous for its incredibly low fares. If you book at the right time, you can snag flights for just a few dollars.
  • Extensive Route Network – From iconic destinations like Paris and Rome to hidden gems like Gdańsk and Zadar, Ryanair offers a vast selection of European routes.
  • Quick and Efficient Travel – With fast turnaround times and direct routes, you can get to your destination with minimal hassle.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Baggage Policy – Ryanair has strict luggage rules, so be sure to check the allowed dimensions before heading to the airport to avoid unexpected fees.
  • Check-In Process – To save money, always check in online before arriving at the airport. Printed or mobile boarding passes are required for a smooth experience.
  • Extra Charges – While the base fare is low, additional services like priority boarding, seat selection, and checked bags come at a price.

How to Travel from Sorrento to Ravello by Ferry

The journey from Sorrento to Ravello is one of the most scenic routes along the Amalfi Coast, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. While there is no direct ferry from Sorrento to Ravello, you can take a ferry to Amalfi and then continue to Ravello by bus or taxi.

This page has extensive information on Visiting Ravello.

Step 1: Taking the Ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi

The Port of Sorrento offers regular ferry services to Amalfi, operated by companies like Navigazione Libera del Golfo (NLG tickets). The ferry ride takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, providing stunning coastal views along the way.
Bus and Ferry Schedule

Taking the Bus from Sorrento to Amalfi SITA Bus: Sorrento – Amalfi

    Step 2: Traveling from Amalfi to Ravello

    Once you arrive at the Port of Amalfi, you have two main options to reach Ravello:

    1. Bus – The SITA bus runs frequently from Amalfi to Ravello, taking about 30 minutes. Tickets cost around €2–5. SITA Bus: Amalfi – Ravello
    2. Taxi – If you prefer a more comfortable and direct option, taxis are available at the port, though they can be more expensive.

    Tips for a Smooth Journey

    • Book ferry tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
    • Check the weather before traveling, as ferry services may be affected by rough seas.
    • Wear comfortable shoes, as Ravello is known for its charming but hilly streets.

    Exploring Ravello after this scenic journey is well worth the effort. From the Villa Rufolo gardens to the breathtaking views at Villa Cimbrone, this hilltop town is a must-visit destination on the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy your trip! 🚢🌊

    Montefalco, Italy


    Discover Montefalco, Italy 🍇

    Experience the heart of Umbria—where history, art, and wine come together. Montefalco, Italy, is a charming town in Umbria, known for its stunning views, rich history, and world-class wine. Here’s a simple webpage concept to inspire visitors:

    🏞️ About Montefalco

    Montefalco is often called the “Balcony of Umbria” for its panoramic views of the rolling countryside. The town boasts medieval streets, stunning frescoes, and a thriving wine culture.

    🏛️ Top Attractions

    • Piazza del Comune – The town’s charming central square.
    • San Francesco Museum – Home to beautiful frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli.
    • Santuario di Santa Chiara della Croce – A peaceful and historic site.
    • Montefalco’s city walls and towers – Offering breathtaking views.

    🍷 Wine & Local Cuisine

    Montefalco is famous for its Sagrantino wine, one of Italy’s finest reds. Enjoy:

    • Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG – A bold and elegant wine.
    • Montefalco Rosso – A smooth blend of Sangiovese and other local varieties.
    • Traditional Umbrian dishes, including wild boar ragu and truffle-infused delicacies.

    🚶 Things to Do

    • Tour local wineries and indulge in wine tastings.
    • Explore artisan shops with handcrafted goods.
    • Visit olive oil mills for a taste of authentic Umbrian flavors.
    • Hike or cycle through Montefalco’s scenic countryside.

    📍 Getting There

    Montefalco is easily accessible by car or train from Rome, Florence, and Perugia.

    🧳 Ready to explore Montefalco? Plan your adventure today!


    Todi, Italy


    Visit Todi, Italy

    Discover the charm of one of Italy’s most beautiful hilltop towns!

    🌍 About Todi

    Todi is known for its picturesque streets, historic architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Situated in Umbria, it offers a perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and traditional Italian life.

    🏛️ Top Attractions

    • Piazza del Popolo – The heart of Todi, surrounded by stunning medieval buildings.
    • Todi Cathedral – A magnificent example of Umbrian Gothic architecture.
    • Tempio di Santa Maria della Consolazione – A masterpiece of the Renaissance.
    • Rocca di Todi – A historic fortress with panoramic views of the countryside.

    🍷 Food & Wine

    Taste the local Umbrian cuisine, including:

    • Handmade pasta like umbricelli
    • Traditional Todi-style roast lamb
    • Locally produced olive oil
    • Excellent wines from Umbria’s vineyards

    🚶 Things to Do

    • Take a walking tour through Todi’s medieval streets.
    • Visit Museo Civico for a deep dive into Todi’s artistic heritage.
    • Enjoy a wine tasting at nearby vineyards.
    • Explore the surrounding Umbrian countryside.

    📍 Getting There

    Todi is easily accessible from Rome and Florence by train or car.

    🧳 Ready to experience the magic of Todi? Let me plan your trip today!


    Viterbo, Italy

    Exploring the Historic Charm of Viterbo, Italy

    Nestled in the Lazio region, Viterbo is a hidden gem brimming with medieval charm, thermal baths, and rich history. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, this enchanting town offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and exploration.

    Getting to Viterbo

    Viterbo is easily accessible from Rome by train (roughly 1.5–2 hours) or by car. The scenic route through the countryside makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

    Whether you’re exploring the medieval heart of the city, indulging in local delicacies, or soaking in the hot springs, Viterbo promises an unforgettable experience.

    What to See in Viterbo

    • Palazzo dei Papi – A stunning medieval palace that once housed popes during the 13th century.
    • San Pellegrino District – Wander through the well-preserved medieval streets lined with charming stone houses.
    • Fontana Grande – One of the city’s oldest and most impressive fountains.
    • Terme dei Papi – Relax in the natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
    • More Information

    Local Delights & Culinary Experiences

    Viterbo is known for its hearty Italian cuisine. Be sure to try:

    • Acquacotta – A traditional Tuscan soup made with vegetables, bread, and olive oil, originally created as a simple meal for shepherds.
    • Pici Pasta – Thick, hand-rolled pasta often served with a rich tomato-based sauce or wild boar ragù.
    • Viterbo Porchetta – Slow-roasted pork seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and fennel, typically served in a crusty roll.
    • Anguilla alla Bisentina – A flavorful eel dish cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and hot peppers, originating from Lake Bolsena.
    • Sbroscia – A rustic fish soup made with local lake fish, potatoes, onions, and mint, traditionally prepared by fishermen.
    • Coda in Padella – A hearty dish featuring pork tails and ears sautéed with potatoes, fennel, and garlic.
    • Biscotto di Sant’Antonio – A sweet, braided bread traditionally baked in January to honor Saint Anthony.

    These dishes showcase the authentic flavors of Viterbo and its surrounding region. If you’re visiting, be sure to explore local trattorias and markets for the best experience!

    Amalfi Heaven Gardens

    🍕Call or email me to book your culinary adventure!

    ⭐️ NEW: Hands-On Pizza Making Class (3 hours)

    Master the art of Italian pizza-making with this hands-on experience, starting with a visit to traditional terraced gardens to explore fresh local ingredients. Under the guidance of an expert pizzaiolo, learn the secrets of perfect dough, how to stretch it by hand, and craft traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. Bake it to perfection in a wood-fired oven, then sit down to enjoy your homemade pizza with a stunning sea view.


    OVERVIEW

    Duration 3 hours
    Start time 12:30 pm , 4:30 pm
    Dates Mar – Oct
    Meeting point Amalfi Heaven Gardens (check Location page for more info)

    DISCOUNTED RATES

    ̶ ̶€̶ ̶6̶9̶   € 59 per person

    Discounted rates are valid for guests booking in advance only. Guests without a reservation will pay the full price.


    INCLUSIONS

    – English/Italian-speaking local guides and expert pizzaiolo
    – Guided tour of the traditional terraced gardens (lemon grove and vegetable garden)
    – Fresh ingredient harvesting from the vegetable garden
    – Hands-on pizza-making class (step-by-step guidance from our expert pizzaiolo)
    – Pizza meal (enjoy the pizzas you create during the class)
    – Beverages (water, local wine, Amalfi Coast Limoncello, Neapolitan coffee)
    – Original pizza recipe
    – Cooking diploma (for your hard work!)

    CLASS DESCRIPTION

    Your adventure begins with a visit to our beautiful terraced gardens, where you’ll explore the lemon grove and vegetable garden, learning about the sustainable farming practices of the Amalfi Coast that help preserve the region’s unique environment and cuisine.

    Afterward, you’ll hand-pick fresh seasonal vegetables and fragrant herbs from the garden, which you’ll later use to craft your pizza. The pizza-making takes place right in the heart of the gardens, with a stunning sea view surrounding you. Under the expert guidance of our pizzaiolo, you’ll make your dough from scratch, learning the secrets to creating the perfect base. You’ll stretch the dough by hand and create your own traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. During the class, you’ll also have the chance to taste other delicious pizzas made by the pizzaiolo.

    Once your pizza is ready, it’s time to bake it to perfection in our wood-fired oven, located just nearby. Finally, you’ll sit down in the gardens to enjoy your homemade pizza, complemented by local wine, Limoncello, and Neapolitan coffee—all while soaking in the breathtaking sea view.

    Come hungry because by the end of the class, you’ll be full from all the tasty pizzas! This hands-on experience not only teaches you the craft of pizza-making but also connects you with the local culture, sustainable practices, and the stunning beauty of the Amalfi Coast.


    WHAT TO BRING

    – Comfortable shoes
    – Sun screen
    – Sun hat
    – Your best smile!


    IMPORTANT NOTES

    – Vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free options are available. Unfortunately, other dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated (e.g., gluten intolerance).
    – Guests must advise at time of booking for any food allergies.
    – This activity is designed as a group experience. For private classes, please contact us directly.
    – Due to some stairs and uneven, steep surfaces, this activity is not suitable for individuals with walking difficulties or those using a wheelchair.


    Hands-on Cooking Class (4 hours)


    Learn your way around an Italian kitchen during this farm-to-table experience, including a terraced gardens visit and cooking class, topped off with a 4-course meal. Harvest fresh ingredients from the vegetable garden and create Italian local dishes such as bruschetta, pasta, and stuffed zucchini flowers. Then sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor, complemented by local wine.


    OVERVIEW

    Duration 4 hours
    Start time 9:30 am , 10:00 am , 2:30 pm , 3:00 pm
    Dates Mar – Oct
    Meeting point Amalfi Heaven Gardens (check Location page for more info)

    DISCOUNTED RATES

    Low season (March – April, October)
    1-3 people € 139 per person
    4-6 people € 135 per person
    7+ people € 129 per person

    High season (May – September)

    1-3 people € 149 per person
    4-6 people € 145 per person
    7+ people € 139 per person

    Discounted rates are valid for guests booking in advance only. Guests without a reservation will pay the full price.


    INCLUSIONS

    – English / Italian speaking local guides and chefs
    – Guided visit of the gardens (olive grove, lemon grove, vegetable garden, vineyard)
    – Fresh ingredients picking from the vegetable garden
    – Hands-on cooking class (guided step-by-step by our chefs)
    – Four-course meal (with the dishes made during the class and other delicacies – see Menu below)
    – Beverages (water, local wine, Amalfi Coast Limoncello, Neapolitan coffee)
    – Recipes (sent by email after the class)
    – Cooking diploma (for your hard work!)

    MENU

    Because we only use fresh, seasonal ingredients from our vegetable gardens and local suppliers and farms, the cooking class menu will vary according to the season and the availability of the products on the day of the class. This is a short list of some local specialties that you are likely to prepare and sample as part of the program of the class:

    – Fried ricotta and anchovies-filled zucchini flowers
    – Smoked mozzarella grilled in lemon leaves
    – Fried smoked mozzarella-filled anchovies (in love)
    – Caciocavallo and prosciutto-filled eggplant rolls
    – Homemade Scialatielli pasta “alla Norma”
    – Homemade spaghetti pasta “alla Nerano”
    – Homemade shrimps-filled lemon ravioli
    – Homemade gnocchi “alla Sorrentina”
    – Homemade tagliatelle pasta “alla Bolognese”
    – Homemade “broken candles” pasta “alla Genovese”
    – Lemon Tiramisù
    – Chocolate eggplant


    CLASS DESCRIPTION

    Our experience begins with a warm welcome from our team who will guide you throughout this awesome class, describing what we will do in the following few hours.

    We will start with a tour of our typical terraced gardens, an ancient local cultivation method that represent a resource of sustainability and environmental conservation on the Amalfi Coast.

    Here we will stroll by and linger at the lemon grove, the olive grove and the vineyard, where you will be provided with significant information on the importance of these groves in the Mediterranean diet and how our worldwide famous Limoncello, olive oil and wine are produced.

    We will continue our visit to the vegetable garden, and after wearing gloves and collecting wicker baskets, we will proceed with the picking of the freshest seasonal veggies and fragrant herbs that we will later use for the preparation of the delicacies during the class.

    Once we have put on our kitchen aprons we will be ready to get down to business and learn the secrets of preparing exquisite traditional dishes, which we will then go on to enjoy all together during a wonderful meal accompanied by local wine, limoncello and real Neapolitan espresso.

    As a perfect finale to our gastronomic experience, feel free to relax in the relaxation area at the lemon grove, sipping a glass of wine or lulling yourself in our comfortable hammocks enjoying the splendid coastal view.


    WHAT TO BRING

    – Comfortable shoes
    – Sun screen
    – Sun hat
    – Your best smile!


    IMPORTANT NOTES

    – Vegetarian options are available. Guests must advise at time of booking if required. Unfortunately, other alternative dietary requirements cannot be catered for (e.g., gluten or lactose intolerance). Guests must advise at time of booking for any food allergies.
    – Due to some stairs and uneven, steep surfaces, this activity is not suitable for individuals with walking difficulties or those using a wheelchair.

    Visiting the Trevi Fountain

    The Trevi Fountain in Rome has introduced a new queuing system to manage the ever-growing crowds, especially in preparation for the Jubilee in 2025.

    I was there in November 2024 (left) as the Fountain was being restored for your visit.

    History of the Fountain

    Navigating the New Queue System at Trevi Fountain

    Officials have implemented a structured queuing system to enhance the visitor experience. Visitors can access the fountain from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the last entry at 8:30 p.m. The number of visitors is capped at 400 at a time to prevent overcrowding.

    On Mondays and Fridays, the fountain remains closed until noon for coin collection, and every other Monday, it opens at 2 p.m. for cleaning.

    Best Times to Visit

    • Late Night Magic: The queue system isn’t regulated after 9 p.m., so visiting after 9:30 p.m. allows you to enjoy the fountain without heavy crowds. Plus, it’s beautifully illuminated at night!
    • Midday Pause: If you want to see the fountain during the day, 12:30 p.m. is a good time since many tourists break for lunch.
    • Avoid Mondays & Fridays Mornings: The fountain stays closed until noon on these days for coin collection and cleaning.

    Where to Line Up

    Visitors enter through a central staircase and exit via a gate on the left side, facing Via dei Crociferi. There’s no time limit—you can stay as long as you like. However, eating, drinking, and sitting on the fountain’s marble edge are prohibited.

    Future Changes

    Rome’s mayor has hinted at a possible online reservation system later this year, which may require visitors to book tickets and select time slots. For now, entry remains free and available for walk-ins.