Florence to Milan train with Italo

Taking the Train from Florence to Milan

Introduction

I’ve done my fair share of train travel in Italy, but the ride from Florence to Milan is one I always recommend. It’s quick, scenic, and just so easy to book on the go. If you're heading from Florence up to Milan, here's everything you need to know about the journey from my first-hand experience.

Route Overview

The train from Florence to Milan covers about 300 kilometers (186 miles) and usually takes 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the service you choose. Most trains are operated by Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa or Italo, both known for their high-speed routes and reliable service.

If you're wondering about the best way to get from Florence to Milan, the train is the smoothest option. There are no airport security lines, no traffic, and you arrive right in the center of the city.

On Omio, you can compare all the transport options, including the bus from Florence to Milan. It's really easy to find the best time and price, no matter how you decide to travel.

Transportation Experience

I booked my ticket the night before via Omio, and it couldn’t have been simpler. I had a few different departure times to choose from, and once I selected my train, the mobile ticket was instantly available in my email and app.

Since I was doing this trip solo, I picked a mid-morning departure. That way, I could grab breakfast before boarding and avoid the early commuter rush. The train station in Florence, Firenze Santa Maria Novella, is right in the heart of the city, so I just walked there from my hotel.

If you're deciding whether to take the train or fly from Florence to Milan, go with the train. Not only is it faster overall (especially once you factor in getting to and from the airports), but the stations are far more convenient.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

The trip begins at Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), which is easy to reach from just about anywhere in central Florence. I always recommend arriving 20 to 30 minutes before your train leaves, especially during peak season.

The train arrives at Milano Centrale, one of the most beautiful stations in Europe. It’s spacious, well-organized, and directly connected to Milan’s metro and taxi lines, so getting to your hotel or next stop is super straightforward.

Schedule & Frequency

There are dozens of trains running this route daily, usually every 15 to 30 minutes from early morning to late evening. I took a Frecciarossa service that departed at 10:25 AM and arrived just after noon, right on time. Trains on the Florence–Milan route tend to be reliable, but I always check my platform using the Trenitalia or Omio app.

Onboard Experience & Services

I rode in Second Class, and honestly, it was great. The seats were wide, with more than enough legroom, and the windows were large, which made the countryside views even better. There were power outlets at every seat and free Wi-Fi that worked surprisingly well for light browsing and email.

There’s also a café car onboard with sandwiches, coffee, and drinks. I grabbed an espresso and a snack midway through the ride, which was of pretty decent quality. The café car is a nice break if you're not in the mood to bring food with you.

The restrooms were clean and checked regularly, and there was plenty of room for luggage in the overhead racks and at the end of the carriage. On Frecciarossa trains, you can bring as much luggage as you can carry, just as long as it doesn’t block the aisles or other seats.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

By booking a few days ahead, I paid €29 for my Frecciarossa train ticket. Prices fluctuate depending on demand and time of day, but if you're flexible and book early, you can often score deals. Here’s a breakdown of what I spent:

Most trains don’t require printed tickets, as you can just show the QR code on your phone. Make sure your ID (passport for non-EU travelers) is on you, as conductors sometimes ask for it along with your ticket.

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Choose a window seat on the right side for more of those rolling hills and countryside views.
• Download the Omio app for live platform updates and mobile tickets, as it saves you a lot of time and stress.
• Bring headphones if you want a quiet ride, especially during peak hours.
• Grab a coffee or snack before boarding if you want something specific, though the onboard café is solid.
• Travel light if you can. There’s storage for larger suitcases, but overhead space is easiest to access.
• For those planning to keep moving after Milan, you can also check trains from Milan to Venice on Omio or buses from Milan to Rome for your next leg.

Conclusion

Florence to Milan by train is one of the easiest and most enjoyable legs of an Italian itinerary. With fast booking, comfortable trains, and beautiful scenery, everything about this journey just works. If you're heading north from Florence, booking a train through Omio is absolutely the way to go.

About the Author: Nancy Sevilla

• Job Title: Travel Content Creator

• Bio: Nancy Sevilla is a travel and lifestyle content creator who shares honest guides, helpful tips, and personal experiences from her global adventures. Based between Spain and the U.S., she specializes in solo travel, digital nomad life, and creating visually compelling content for her blog and social platforms.