Discover the Gentle Charm: Train Travel to Rome for the Over-60s

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle that often accompanies air travel? Yearning for a more leisurely journey that allows you to soak in the scenic beauty and enjoy the journey as much as the destination? If you’re over 60 and planning a trip to Rome, consider the allure of train travel. It’s a timeless and serene way to reach the Eternal City, providing a host of benefits that can turn your journey into an integral part of your Roman adventure. Italy boasts two main operators: Trenitalia and Italo Treno with Trenord running some regional routes in the north. As the Man in Seat 61 (an excellent resource) says, “If you use Trenitalia.com or Italiarail.com you’ll only see Trenitalia’s trains, but if you use Thetrainline.com or Raileurope.com you’ll see both operators’ trains and can compare prices. This is worth remembering!”

The Relaxing hum of Train Travel

Train travel to Rome offers a tranquil alternative to the often hectic experience of flying. Picture yourself comfortably seated in a spacious train cabin, gazing out at the picturesque Italian countryside as it unfolds outside your window. The smooth hum of wheels on modern welded tracks sets a soothing tempo, allowing you to unwind and savour the journey.

ETR 500 Frecciarossa Gisorr650, CC BY-SA 4.0 — ETR.500.40 Frecciarossa Image: Gisorr650, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Fast Intercity Links

One of the key advantages of train travel to Rome is the efficiency of the fast intercity links. High-speed trains, such as the Frecciarossa, whisk you from major cities to Rome in no time. For the over-60s traveller, this means less time spent in transit and more time to explore the wonders of Rome.

InterCity versus High-Speed

InterCity trains were among Trenitalia’s faster trains until the rail operator introduced the Frecce trains on certain routes. They still connect more destinations than the Frecce or Italo Treno high-speed trains, so they can be either an economical option (they’re usually less expensive than the high-speed trains) or the only option.

InterCity (IC) trains travel at speeds of up to 100-125 MPH (160-200 km/h), and there are first and second class cars. While reservations for IC trains are required, if you purchase a ticket online or at the train station the reservation is included automatically. Rail pass holders, however, are not required to have a seat reservation before boarding IC trains, though seat reservations can be purchased in advance.

There are currently 86 daily InterCity connections throughout Italy, reaching more than 200 stations.

Italian train just leaving Venice. Image: copyright N J E Thorne 2023

Local Trains for a Truly Authentic Experience

To delve into the heart of Italy, consider incorporating local trains into your itinerary. These trains offer a more authentic experience, allowing you to witness the charming Italian countryside and the quaint villages that dot the landscape. Local trains provide a slower pace, inviting you to embrace the beauty of the journey and the cultural richness that surrounds you.

Enjoy the Journey, Arrive by Train and not Plane

Unlike air travel, which often involves long security lines and crowded airports, train travel allows you to board and disembark with ease. No need to worry about cramped seating or the pressure changes that can sometimes affect well-being during flights. Instead, enjoy the journey, savour a meal in the dining car, or simply relax in your seat as the Italian landscapes unfold outside your window.

Embrace the Romance of Rail Travel

Train travel has an undeniable romantic allure, evoking a bygone era of elegant journeys and timeless adventures. For the over-60s tourist, this nostalgic charm adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the travel experience. Embrace the romance of rail travel as you traverse the Italian landscape en route to Rome.

Rail Connections to Rome’s Airports

Even if you fly into Rome, I would suggest that taking the train to get you into the centre is a great option to consider.

Train travel seamlessly connects you to and from Rome’s Fiumicino (FCO) airport, offering a stress-free transition between modes of transportation. Arriving or departing from Fiumicino by train ensures a smooth continuation of your journey without the hassles often associated with airport transfers. This convenience is particularly valuable for those who prefer a more straightforward and relaxed travel experience.

The tourist is spoilt for choice. There are several train options that will get them from Termini Station in the centre of Rome to Fiumicino, thus making it easy to travel between the two locations. The various alternatives are to take one of the regional trains, jump on the Leonardo Express, or take an intercity rail route that all connect Rome with FCO airport. Passengers arriving or departing from Fiumicino Airport will find they have numerous trains at their disposal that run at frequent intervals, heading to and fro from the city centre, as well as other Rome train stations and elsewhere in Italy.

Onboard the Leonardo Express to FCO airport Image: copyright N J E Thorne 2023

Ciampino Airport (CIA), the other airport serving Rome, lacks a direct connection to Roma Termini due to the absence of a train station at the airport. Consequently, travellers must make their way to Ciampino’s Train Station, from where they may board a train bound for Termini. Fortunately, it is not that difficult to get from the airport to this station as the introduction of the Ciampino Airlink offers a relatively straightforward, rapid, and cost-effective means of commuting from Ciampino Airport to Rome Termini.

This Airlink service is a combination of bus and train travel, with buses departing every 20 minutes from the designated airport bus stop outside the CIA Arrivals hall and transporting passengers to Ciampino Train Station. After a brief 13-minute journey, passengers disembark and can then board one of the regional trains operating from 05:25 am to 11:19 pm at intervals of 10 to 30 minutes. The train journey to Roma Termini takes just 15 minutes and the total duration of the approximately 34-minute trip is priced at a reasonable €2.70£2.35/£2.35/$3, with no additional charges for children under 4, small pets, or excessive luggage. Tickets can be conveniently purchased online or from the automated ticket vendors.

In conclusion, train travel to Rome is not just a means of transportation; it can be a journey that invites you to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and arrive in the Eternal City with a sense of tranquillity. As you plan your trip, consider the gentle charm of train travel – an experience that transcends mere transit and becomes an integral part of your Roman adventure.

As a seasoned traveller, I’ve had the privilege of exploring countless destinations across the globe, each with its unique charm and allure. Yet, among the many captivating cities I’ve visited, Rome holds a special place in my heart. Its rich history, captivating art, and vibrant culture have left an indelible mark on my soul. I believe it offers an unparalleled experience for travellers of all ages, particularly those in their sixties and beyond.

Imagine embarking on a five-day adventure to the Eternal City, where every corner whispers tales of emperors, gladiators, and artistic geniuses. Let me guide you through a carefully curated itinerary that will unveil Rome’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks, ensuring a truly unforgettable journey.

Johnny Thorne, writer at Let’s Visit Guides.

Day 1: Immerse Yourself in Ancient Rome

Our adventure begins at the Colosseum, an awe-inspiring symbol of Rome’s imperial grandeur. Picture yourself standing amidst the colossal arches, imagining the roar of the crowd as gladiators battled for glory. Next, delve into the Roman Forum, where once stood the heart of the ancient republic. Stroll along the Via Sacra, the sacred road once traversed by emperors and senators.

In the Forum Rome — Tempio di Apollo, Roma, Italy – Temple of Apollo, Rome

Day 2: Explore Vatican City’s Treasures

No trip to Rome is complete without venturing into Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. Prepare to be captivated by St. Peter’s Square, where Bernini’s magnificent colonnades embrace the faithful. Then, step inside St. Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, and marvel at Michelangelo’s breathtaking dome.

St Peter's Basilica, Rome — St Peter’s Basilica, Rome

Day 3: Wander through Rome’s Artistic Soul

Rome is a haven for art enthusiasts, and today we’ll immerse ourselves in its artistic treasures. Start at the Borghese Gallery, a stunning villa housing an exquisite collection of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries. Later, stroll through the vibrant Trastevere neighbourhood, where art galleries and artisan workshops mingle with charming cafés and trattorias.

Day 4: Ascend to the Top of Rome

For panoramic views that will leave you breathless, ascend the Spanish Steps, a grand staircase leading to Piazza di Spagna. Continue to the Pincian Hill, where the Belvedere Terrace offers breathtaking vistas of Rome’s cityscape. And then stroll through the enchanting Villa Borghese gardens, a tranquil oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

Day 5: Savour Rome’s Culinary Delights

Rome is a feast for the senses, and no visit would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Start with a traditional Roman breakfast of caffè latte and cornetto (croissant). For lunch, enjoy a hearty pasta dish at a local trattoria, followed by a delightful gelato for dessert. As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant, savouring the flavours of Rome while the city twinkles below.

Rome is a city that rewards exploration, and I encourage you to venture beyond our itinerary and discover your own hidden gems. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, soak in the atmosphere of bustling piazzas, and engage in lively conversations with the locals. Embrace the slow, leisurely pace of life that Rome embodies, and revel in every moment of your enchanting adventure.

Month: December 2023

Let the train take all the strain