Buses in Italy: Timetables, Tickets & Travel Tips

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to explore Italy. Traveling through Italy by bus allows you to reach major cities and picturesque coastal towns easily.

This guide will cover key details about bus timetables, ticket options, and helpful travel tips for your journey by buses in Italy.

Top Domestic Bus Routes

Bologna Airport to Florence

Florence to Bologna Airport

Bologna Airport to Rimini

Taormina to Catania

Catania to Palermo

Palermo to Catania

Catania to Taormina

Palermo Airport to Trapani

Cortina d’Ampezzo to Venice Airport

Syracuse to Catania Airport

Catania Airport to Taormina

Palermo to Palermo Airport

Bari Airport to Matera

Palermo to Syracuse

Catania to Syracuse

Top International Bus Routes

Trieste to Pula

Venice to Pula

Trieste to Rovinj

Venice to Rovinj

Trieste to Porec

Intercity Bus Travel in Italy

Traveling by bus between cities in Italy is easy and efficient. The extensive bus network connects major cities and popular destinations, allowing you to explore the country’s rich culture and beautiful landscapes.

Most buses offer comfortable seating, air conditioning, and sometimes free Wi-Fi, enhancing your travel experience. Frequent schedules and affordable tickets make intercity travel convenient.

Domestic Bus Travel

Domestic bus travel in Italy is reliable, connecting cities, towns, and rural areas. With numerous routes available, you can easily reach your desired destination. Buses run frequently, making it convenient for flexible travel plans, whether you're visiting a major city or a small village.

Most domestic buses are equipped with amenities such as air conditioning and comfortable seating to ensure a pleasant journey.

International Bus Travel

Italy’s bus network connects to several neighboring countries, including France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. Popular routes like Milan to Paris and Venice to Vienna provide convenient cross-border travel, with daily departures for flexibility.

International buses offer comfortable seating and amenities such as air conditioning and sometimes Wi-Fi, providing a convenient and affordable way to explore Europe.

Overnight Buses in Italy

Overnight buses are available on some long routes, such as Milan to Paris or Rome to Munich, allowing you to travel overnight and arrive refreshed. These buses usually feature reclining seats and air conditioning for a more comfortable experience.

Bus Stations in Italy

Italy’s major bus stations serve as hubs for local and international routes, providing essential facilities for travelers:

Rome Tiburtina Bus Station: Italy’s largest station, offering connections across Italy and Europe. Facilities include waiting areas, ticket counters, restrooms, and food options.

Milan Lampugnano Bus Station: Milan bus station connects Milan to domestic and international destinations, featuring amenities like ticket counters, cafes, and restrooms.

Florence SITA Bus Station: Florence bus station is located near Santa Maria Novella train station, connecting Florence to regional and intercity routes. Offers ticket services, waiting areas, and cafes.

Naples Garibaldi Bus Terminal: Naples bus station serves major routes within Italy and to Europe. Includes basic facilities like ticket counters, restrooms, and nearby cafes.

Venice Tronchetto Bus Terminal: Venice bus station is a central station for regional and international travel. Amenities include ticket offices, cafes, and restrooms.

Airport Shuttle Bus in Italy

Italy’s major airports offer shuttle bus services to nearby cities, such as Rome Fiumicino to Rome city center, and Milan Malpensa to Milan city center. Airport shuttles are convenient for travelers arriving by air and needing onward transport.

Bus Companies in Italy

Italy has a wide range of bus companies operating across the country. Major companies like FlixBus, MarinoBus, and Autostradale offer extensive intercity services. Additionally, regional companies provide local connections, making it easy to explore lesser-known destinations.

Buying a Bus Ticket in Italy

Buying a bus ticket in Italy is easy with the GetBy App, where you can browse schedules, compare prices, and purchase tickets. Tickets can also be bought at bus stations, where staff can help with routes and schedules. Some companies have websites allowing online booking.

Bus Rental Service in Italy

For group travel, bus rental services are available across Italy. These services offer modern buses with comfortable seating, ideal for private tours, events, or corporate groups. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Public Transportation in Italy

Public transportation in Italy’s larger cities, such as Rome, Milan, and Florence, includes extensive bus and tram networks. Tickets can usually be purchased at kiosks, via mobile apps, or onboard. Each city may vary, so check local options when you arrive.

Tips for Traveling Italy by Bus

Plan Your Routes: Check bus schedules in advance, as some routes to smaller towns may have limited service.

Book Tickets Early: During peak tourist season, it’s wise to book tickets in advance for popular routes like Rome to Florence.

Arrive Early: Get to the bus station 20-30 minutes before departure, especially in large stations like Rome Tiburtina.

Prepare for Stops: Many buses make multiple stops, so keep an eye on your belongings.

Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and entertainment for longer journeys.

Dress Comfortably: Buses may be air-conditioned, so consider bringing a light jacket.

Enjoy the Scenery: Italy offers beautiful countryside views, so take in the scenery as you travel.

Be Respectful: Keep noise levels down and be considerate to fellow passengers for a pleasant journey.

Buses in Italy FAQs

How to pay for buses in Italy?

You can pay for buses in Italy by purchasing tickets at kiosks, ticket machines, or onboard (in some cities). Many cities also offer ticketing through mobile apps or at newsstands displaying the bus company’s logo.

How much does it cost to take a bus in Italy?

Bus fares in Italy vary by city and region. Typically, a single city bus ticket costs around €1.50–€2.00 and is valid for 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the city. Intercity and long-distance fares depend on the route and can be higher.

How is bus travel in Italy?

Bus travel in Italy is convenient and widely available, connecting major cities, towns, and rural areas. The buses are usually comfortable, and many come with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, making them a good option for both local and long-distance travel.

Do buses in Italy take credit cards?

Some bus stations and ticket machines in major cities accept credit cards. However, it’s not guaranteed for every location, so carrying cash or using a mobile ticketing app is recommended, especially in smaller towns.

How much is a bus fine in Italy?

If caught without a valid bus ticket, fines in Italy typically range from €50 to €100, depending on the city and if the fine is paid on the spot or later.

Can you take luggage on buses in Italy?

Yes, you can bring luggage on buses in Italy. For local buses, smaller bags are allowed onboard, while larger bags may need to be stored in the bus’s luggage compartment, especially on long-distance and intercity routes.