When you think about traveling around Italy, trains usually come to mind first. But here’s the thing: buses are one of the most practical and affordable ways to explore, especially if you’re heading to towns and regions the rail network doesn’t reach.
This guide explains how buses in Italy work, from national companies to regional routes, plus how to buy tickets, what to expect on board, and when buses make more sense than trains. You’ll also find out how to plan your journey easily using OMIO, which compares routes, times, and prices across Italy’s main bus operators.
Note – we're not covering local city transportation in this article. If you need that information, you'll find it for many Italian cities in the premium version of the Untold Italy app.
If you’re still choosing the best way to get around, start with our guide to transportation in Italy.
Why Take the Bus in Italy
Buses are often overlooked, but they’re a lifeline for many Italian towns and villages. If you want to visit places like Positano, Matera or small towns all over Italy, the bus is often your best or only choice. This is even true in Tuscany, where many people are surprised by the lack of train services.
Cheaper than trains, buses are easy to book, and surprisingly comfortable. Most long-distance buses have air conditioning, reclining seats, space for luggage and often free wifi. The trade-off is speed, since buses can be delayed by traffic, but they’re perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility and value over fast connections.
National Bus Networks in Italy
A few large companies run long-distance routes across the country, connecting big cities and smaller regional hubs. These buses are popular with both locals and tourists looking for affordable travel between regions.
Main Italian Bus Companies
- FlixBus: The biggest network in Italy and across Europe. You can book directly, through OMIO or the FlixBus app.
- Itabus: A modern Italian operator known for comfort, Wi-Fi, and low fares.
- MarinoBus and Baltour: Focused on southern routes and some cross-border trips into France and Switzerland.
Buses usually leave from major stations or terminals in city centers. Onboard, you’ll find luggage storage, air conditioning, and sometimes Wi-Fi. Some routes even operate overnight, letting you save time and the cost of a hotel.
Using OMIO is the easiest way to compare all these options in one place, especially if different companies run the same route..
Regional Bus Networks
Every region in Italy operates its own local and intercity buses. These are handy for shorter routes or when you’re exploring small towns without train connections.
Examples of Regional Bus Operators
- Tuscany: Autolinee Toscane and Tiemme
- Lazio (Rome is the capital): Cotral
- Campania (including Amalfi Coast): SITA Sud – also Puglia and Basilicata in southern Italy
- Puglia: Ferrovie del Sud Est
We've collated the regional bus information for each region in the premium version of the Untold Italy app
Regional buses connect towns like San Gimignano, Orvieto, or Amalfi, where trains don’t reach. They run frequently on weekdays and less often on Sundays or holidays. You’ll often see “feriale” for weekday schedules and “festivo” for Sundays or holidays.
Tickets are sold online, at bus stations, or in “tabacchi” shops (news stands) marked with a blue “T.” If you buy a paper ticket, stamp it in the small machine near the driver before boarding or risk a hefty fine. In some cases you may be able to pay via “tap and go” with your credit card but this is dependent on the local bus company and services vary wildly.
To learn more about how regional transport fits together, check our guide to getting around Italy
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When to Choose a Bus Over a Train
Italy’s train system is fast and efficient, but buses have the edge in some situations.
Choose the Bus When
- You’re going to a place without a train station, like Matera or Positano.
- You want a direct route such as Naples to Amalfi or Bari to Alberobello.
- You’re traveling on a budget or booking close to departure.
Choose the Train When
- You’re traveling between major cities like Rome, Florence, or Milan.
- You want to save time on long distances.
You can learn more about how the two options compare in our train travel guide
How to Book Bus Tickets in Italy
The simplest way to find routes and buy tickets for long distance bus journeys in Italy is through OMIO. It shows all the main operators, including FlixBus, Itabus, and MarinoBus, so you can compare schedules and fares side by side. Tickets are also available at bus stations. Digital tickets from OMIO or FlixBus are fine to show on your phone.
For regional routes its best to purchase your tickets at bus stations, or in tabacchi shops (newstands). You may also be able to “tap and go” with your credit card but this will depend on services offered by the local bus company. If you’re using a paper ticket, remember to validate it before boarding or risk a fine.
Note – In some cases, including the island of Capri, you can pay on board the bus but only in cash
Practical Tips for Bus Travel in Italy
- Plan around weekends and holidays. Services are limited on Sundays and public holidays.
- Amalfi Coast bus routes are very busy in summer. You may need to wait for several buses if traveling at peak times.
- Double-check stop names. Towns may have several stops with similar looking names with considerable distance between them
- Arrive early. Some stops are unmarked and buses don’t wait long.
- Travel light – luggage space is limited, especially for regional buses.
- Download your route so you can track the progress of your journey. This helps if your mobile signal drops
- Stay aware of local strike information. We provide strike alerts to premium users on the Untold Italy app
Comfort and Accessibility
Most national companies have modern, accessible fleets. FlixBus and Itabus offer reclining seats, air-conditioning, free wifi, power outlets and onboard toilets. Some older regional buses may be more basic.
If you’re taking a long journey, check whether the bus includes rest stops or onboard toilets.
Bus travel is also one of the most eco-friendly ways to explore Italy. Many companies now use low-emission or hybrid vehicles.
FAQs About Bus Travel in Italy
Are buses in Italy safe?
Yes. Buses are used by locals every day and are well maintained.
Do I need to book in advance?
For long-distance trips, yes booking in advance is recommended. For regional services, you can buy a ticket on the day.
Can I take luggage or pets?
Most long distance buses allow one suitcase and a carry-on. Small pets are usually allowed, but check the company’s policy.
Do buses run on Sundays and holidays?
Yes, but with fewer departures. Check schedules in advance on OMIO or the operator’s website.
Conclusion: Should You Travel Italy by Bus?
Buses in Italy are an easy and affordable way to see more of the country. They connect charming small towns, rural regions, and coastlines that trains skip entirely.
If you’re looking for flexible travel without the cost of a car rental and are not pressed for time, the Italian bus network might be your best option. Compare routes and book tickets with OMIO to plan your trip smoothly.
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