AGV Italo & Frecciarossa

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AGV Italo & Frecciarossa

Train Reviews

AGV Italo & Frecciarossa

AGV Italo & Frecciarossa Reviews: Which Italian Train is Right for You?

Italy boasts one of the most competitive and advanced high-speed rail networks in Europe. The unique aspect of traveling through Italy in 2026 is the fierce competition between two operators running on the same high-speed tracks: the state-owned Frecciarossa (operated by Trenitalia) and the privately-owned AGV Italo (operated by NTV).

Both trains travel at speeds up to 300 km/h, whisking passengers between Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, and Naples in a matter of hours. Choosing between them usually comes down to schedule, subtle differences in luxury classes, and ticket pricing.

The Competitors at a Glance

  • Frecciarossa (Trenitalia): The state-backed “Red Arrow.” Offers four distinct classes of service, massive network coverage, and an onboard restaurant/bistro car.
  • AGV Italo (NTV): Europe’s first private high-speed operator, utilizing sleek, Ferrari-red Alstom AGV trains. Famous for high-end Italian design, competitive pricing, and automated snack areas.
AGV Italo & Frecciarossa

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

Frecciarossa Classes

  1. Standard: Basic economy, 2-2 seating, free Wi-Fi.
  2. Premium: 2-2 seating but with leather seats and a welcome drink/snack.
  3. Business: 2-1 seating, wider leather chairs, quiet zones, and a welcome service.

4. Executive: The ultimate luxury. Only 8-10 massive leather recliner seats in the entire carriage, unlimited premium food and drink served at your seat, and free station lounge access.

Italo Classes

  1. Smart: Standard economy, 2-2 seating, free Wi-Fi.
  2. Prima: 2-1 seating, more legroom, fast-track boarding, and a welcome trolley with drinks and snacks.

3. Club Executive: Ultra-premium. Features wide leather seats with personal screens, access to Italo Club lounges, and dedicated catering. You can even book a private “Salotto” (enclosed 4-seat cabin) for business meetings.

Luggage Allowance & Policies

Unlike airlines, Italian high-speed trains do not charge for luggage, and there are no strict weight limits—but space is first-come, first-served.

Train Carry-On/Small Luggage Domestic Checked Baggage
Frecciarossa Store overhead or between back-to-back seats. Store in the large luggage racks at the ends of each carriage.
Italo Store overhead or under seats. Store in the racks at the carriage ends. 

Note: Smart class has strict size limits (max 75x53x30 cm) for bags entering the carriage.

Security Tip: Luggage theft on trains, while uncommon, can happen during station stops. Keep your valuables in your small bag at your seat, and if you leave a large bag at the carriage end, keep an eye on it when the train pulls into major stations like Roma Termini or Milano Centrale.

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: The competition keeps prices incredibly low compared to the rest of Europe. If booked in advance, you can travel from Rome to Milan in under 3 hours for the price of a cheap dinner.
  • The Lows: Both operators suffer from occasional Italian rail infrastructure delays. Station platforms are often only announced 10 minutes before departure, leading to a mad dash of passengers.

Pros & Cons of Italian High-Speed Rail

Pros:

  • Bypasses airport security entirely; connects city centers directly.
  • Frecciarossa’s Executive and Italo’s Club Executive rival First Class air travel.
  • Exceptionally fast (Rome to Florence takes just 1.5 hours).
  • Free Wi-Fi is available on both operators.

Cons:

  • Luggage storage can be a chaotic free-for-all during peak summer months.
  • The “Smart” class on Italo has less legroom than standard Frecciarossa.
  • Last-minute platform announcements at massive stations can be stressful.

Have You Journeyed on Italo & Frecciarossa?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Italo & Frecciarossa

Which is better, Italo or Frecciarossa?

Both are excellent. Frecciarossa generally has slightly more legroom in its base class and a full bistro car. Italo is often slightly cheaper, features a more modern, sleek design, and relies on vending machines for snacks in lower classes. Choose the one that offers the best schedule and price for your day of travel.

Do I have to pay for luggage on Italian trains?

No, luggage is completely free. However, you must be able to carry it onto the train yourself and lift it into the storage racks.

Is there food on Frecciarossa and Italo?

Yes. Frecciarossa has a dedicated bistro/bar car where you can buy hot food and coffee. Italo has automated vending machines for standard passengers, while both trains offer at-seat drink and snack service for passengers in premium classes.

Have You Ridden Italo or Frecciarossa?

Your experience helps other travelers make informed decisions! Did you prefer the Ferrari-sleek design of Italo, or the Executive luxury of Frecciarossa?

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the operator before booking.