- Must visit
MArTA - Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Taranto
Taranto's main archaeological museum, famed for Magna Graecia finds, gold jewels, sculpture, and artifacts that explain the city's ancient power.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Messina to Taranto
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
zł170
Average price
zł280
Fastest journey
8 h 25 m
Average duration
9 h 38 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
292 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Messina to Taranto is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Messina to Taranto will cost around zł280 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł170.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Messina to Taranto without transferring at least once.
Intercity 734 · Intercity 56210:15 AM8h25Messina Centrale6:40 PMTaranto stationzł1701One-way1 transfer- Intercity 734 · Intercity 56210:15 AM8h25Messina Centrale6:40 PMTaranto stationzł1701One-way1 transfer
Regionale 21684+Intercity 734 · Intercity 5629:18 AM9h22Fiumara Gazzi6:40 PMTaranto stationzł1781One-way2 transfers- Intercity 724+
FRECCIAROSSA 95471:20 PM10h28Messina Centrale11:48 PMTaranto stationzł2651One-way1 transfer - Intercity 701+
InterCityNotte 19601:20 AM11h32Messina Centrale12:52 PMTaranto stationzł4471One-way1 transfer
- Intercity 734 · Intercity 56210:15 AM8h25Messina Centrale6:40 PMTaranto stationzł1701One-way1 transfer
- Intercity 734 · Intercity 56210:15 AM8h25Messina Centrale6:40 PMTaranto stationzł1701One-way1 transfer
- Regionale 21684+Intercity 734 · Intercity 5629:18 AM9h22Fiumara Gazzi6:40 PMTaranto stationzł1781One-way2 transfers
- Intercity 724+FRECCIAROSSA 95471:20 PM10h28Messina Centrale11:48 PMTaranto stationzł2651One-way1 transfer
- Intercity 701+InterCityNotte 19601:20 AM11h32Messina Centrale12:52 PMTaranto stationzł4471One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Messina to Taranto
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Messina to Taranto among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from zł92. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 6h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of zł92, and a train costs an average of zł170.
Distance: 181 miles (292 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
zł176 Average price | zł165 Average price Cheapest | zł278 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 57m Average total duration 8h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 56m Average total duration Fastest 6h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Messina to Taranto is a bus with an average price of zł165.
This is compared to other travel options from Messina to Taranto:
A bus is zł11 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Messina to Taranto costing on average zł176.
The fastest way to travel from Messina to Taranto is by bus with an average journey time of 6h 26m.
Other travel options to Taranto take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Messina and Taranto including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Messina to Taranto among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around zł176 compared to roughly zł278 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about zł102. The journey takes 8h 27m versus 4h 45m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Messina to Taranto train times
The table below shows live departures for Messina to Taranto trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale 21684+Intercity 734 · Intercity 562 | 9:18 AM Fiumara Gazzi | 9h22 | 6:40 PM Taranto station | 2 transfers | |
| Intercity 734 · Intercity 562 | 10:15 AM Messina Centrale | 8h25 | 6:40 PM Taranto station | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 734 · Intercity 562 | 10:15 AM Messina Centrale | 8h25 | 6:40 PM Taranto station | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 724+FRECCIAROSSA 9547 | 1:20 PM Messina Centrale | 10h28 | 11:48 PM Taranto station | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, August 4 | |||||
| Intercity 701+InterCityNotte 1960 | 1:20 AM Messina Centrale | 11h32 | 12:52 PM Taranto station | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 701+InterCityNotte 1960 | 1:20 AM Messina Centrale | 11h32 | 12:52 PM Taranto station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Messina to Taranto by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Tue
Aug 04
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Thu
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Messina to Taranto
ItalyItaly
Trains from Messina to Taranto run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł170 but you can travel from only zł92 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 16:50. The fastest train covers the 181 miles (292 km) distance in 8h 24m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from zł92
Distance 181 miles (292 km) |
Average train duration 8h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price zł170 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 8h 24m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 4:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from zł92
Train companies: Intercity, Intercity Notte from Messina to Taranto trainsIntercity, Intercity Notte trains will get you between Messina and Taranto from zł92. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 24m
Cheapest Price
zł170
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Intercity Notte frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Taranto
Things to do in Taranto
Discover the best of Taranto — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Taranto trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Etnografico Alfredo Majorano
Museum in Palazzo Pantaleo presenting local ethnography, traditions, crafts, and social history. A strong complement to archaeological visits in Taranto.
- Recommended
Museo Diocesano MuDi
Diocesan museum preserving sacred art, manuscripts, silverwork, and objects linked to Taranto's cathedral and archdiocesan heritage.
- Must visit
Lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III
Seafront promenade lined with palm trees and public buildings. Ideal for sunsets, civic architecture, and understanding Taranto's relationship with the sea.
- Must visit
Città Vecchia
Taranto's old island district, packed with alleys, churches, viewpoints, and daily life. Essential for experiencing the city's deepest historical layers.
- Must visit
Canale Navigabile
Canal-side viewpoint area where visitors can watch the swing bridge and boats pass between the Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo waters.
- Gluten-free
Cozze Tarantine
Raw or lightly marinated Taranto mussels, prized for the Mar Piccolo's brackish waters and long local mussel farming tradition.
- Gluten-free
Polpo Alla Pignata
Small octopus simmered in tomato, often with olives or capers. A classic coastal home-style dish tied to Taranto's fishing culture.
Cozze Ripiene
Baked mussels stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, and garlic. A beloved Apulian family recipe common in Taranto.
Ristorante Al Gatto Rosso
Refined seafood-focused Michelin-starred dining with elegant plating and strong ties to Pugliese ingredients.
La Paranza
Well-known harbor-area restaurant celebrated for local fish, shellfish, and traditional Taranto seafood dishes.
Al Canale
Popular traditional venue for Apulian seafood and classic regional recipes in a relaxed, established setting.
Euro (€)
Generally cheaper than Rome or Milan. Hotels, dining, and local transit are usually moderate, with good value seafood and lower tourist-area prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or not expected. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for great restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.
CTP Taranto
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.30
- Day pass
- €3.60
To the city center
Taranto Porto Mercantile -> Piazza Ebalia, Taranto
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets before boarding; validate paper tickets when you board CTP buses.
- CTP buses are the main local public transport. Contactless bank card payment onboard is not reliably documented, so carry a valid ticket in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Messina to Taranto
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Messina to Taranto by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Taranto, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Messina to Taranto can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł170, while the average price is around zł176.
The train from Messina to Taranto takes 8h 24m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Messina to Taranto leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Messina to Taranto is 181 miles (292 km).
The last train from Messina to Taranto leaves at 4:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Messina to Taranto.
There is no direct train service currently available from Messina to Taranto.
Yes, there is a night train from Messina to Taranto.
The train station in Messina that goes to Taranto is Messina Centrale, which connects to Taranto station.
The cheapest way to get from Messina to Taranto is by bus, with a cost of around zł92.
The train journey from Messina to Taranto offers scenic views, including picturesque coastal landscapes along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, lush countryside, and charming rural towns in Southern Italy, providing a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Messina to Taranto is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 24m. Trains operate 4 times per day.
In Taranto, you can explore vibrant local markets for fresh produce and traditional Italian goods, take a boat tour to admire the coastline and nearby islands, enjoy a day at the beach, and visit local restaurants to savor authentic Apulian cuisine. Don't miss the historic Castello Aragonese for panoramic views, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale for ancient artifacts, the stunning Cattedrale di San Cataldo, the unique Ponte Girevole, and the scenic Lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III promenade. Attend a cultural event or festival to experience local traditions and community spirit.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Taranto allows enough time to explore its historical sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and experience the coastal ambiance.
Yes, you can take the train from Messina to Taranto.
Since both Messina and Taranto are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Taranto include Bari, Lecce, Brindisi, Martina Franca, Gioia del Colle.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Messina to Taranto among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Taranto, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares and unofficial guides near popular sites can occur. It is advisable to use licensed transportation services and remain vigilant in busy tourist spots to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Messina to Taranto
Most Messina to Taranto trains use the Messina Centrale to Stazione di Taranto station pair. Use this guide to compare Messina and Taranto train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Messina
Arrival train stations in Taranto
Which Taranto station do trains from Messina arrive at?
Trains from Messina to Taranto arrive at Stazione di Taranto. Stazione di Taranto is 0 miles (1 km) from Taranto city centre.
Stazione di TarantoViale Duca d'Aosta, Taranto, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Stazione di Taranto from Taranto city centre
Bus28, 27, 14, 20, 21 · 7m · zł5 · every ~11 min
Linea 8 · 13m · zł5 · every ~11 min
Linea 97 Corsa 0541 · 16m · zł9
110 inbound · 26m · zł5
Stazione di Taranto train station facilities and services
Stazione di Taranto has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Al Gambero, Trattoria del Pescatore
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stazione di Taranto. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Stazione di Taranto. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stazione di Taranto: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stazione di Taranto: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stazione di Taranto: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Plaza Taranto, Mercure Delfino Taranto.
Most popular train connections from Messina
More options for your journey from Messina to Taranto
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Taranto and Messina
Most popular train connections to Taranto
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