The red lines indicate both fast and slow train lines, the orange lines indicate sections of track only for slower trains (or fast trains throttled back to slower speeds).

Eurostar (ES or Treni Eurostar Italia, not the London to Paris Eurostar) Italy's fastest and most expensive trains. Seat reservations on Eurostar Italia are manditory. Eurostar travels swiftly between major Italian cities.
Intercity and Intercity Plus Trains stop only at the major cities, as shown on the map. Seat reservations are compulsary on the Intercity Plus trains, and the fee is included in the ticket price.
Regional Trains - Regionale are the slower, local trains. On the crowded routes at peak times you might want to consider first class tickets, which will add only about 30% to the fare and give you a good chance to get a seat.
Some people like to have their "big" tickets for faster trains or longer journeys in hand while in the United States. This will usually cost you more than just buying them at a train station, but if you find it convenient, check times and costs of European train travel in the box below.
Another way to buy point-to-point rail tickets is through the US company Select Italy, an agent fo Trenitalia: Italian Train Tickets.
To see one of nothern Italy's main lines and a compelling one for tourists, see our Torino to Trieste Rail Map.
Take a look at our interactive demonstration of an Italian departure board, where you'll learn how to deal with trains at the train station.
Find out more about Italian Rail Passes and when you do and don't need them: Italy Rail Passes